Initial informal phone calls are becoming more and more frequent from OSHA. First and foremost, you must have a plan in place, if you ever receive such a call from OSHA.
Letters from OSHA
Typically, when OSHA receives a non-formal complaint, its first investigative step is usually to send a letter to the owner of a practice.
Telephone Calls From OSHA
When investigating a non-formal complaint, OSHA may also call a practice, in addition to sending an investigatory letter. Responding to an OSHA telephone inquiry poses several unique risks for practice owners.
Developing an Office Protocol
To avoid potential and unintended problems, practice owners should create a risk management plan for responding to telephone calls from OSHA inspectors. Once formulated, the office protocol should be clearly explained to and followed by all office staff.
By formulating an office protocol in order to handle OSHA investigations, practice owners can take steps to adequately protect themselves during the investigation process. It is crucial that practice owners plan for OSHA investigation inquiries. In addition, it is also critical that all employees are aware of office protocol regarding OSHA inquiries, in order to avoid unintended consequences.
Stuart J. Oberman, Esq. handles a wide range of legal issues including employment law, practice sales, real estate transactions, lease agreements, OSHA compliance, board complaints, employment law, and entity formation.
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