Working With Inspectors
Inspectors visit job sites to check permits, building code, fire safety, environmental rules and workplace safety. How you prepare and respond shapes the visit and what happens afterward. Treat inspectors with respect, be honest and know your rights.
- Foremen
- Superintendents
- Workers
Types of inspectors
- Building and trade inspectors check work against code at set stages such as footings, framing, rough-in and final. See Permits & Inspections.
- Fire marshals check exits, extinguishers, hot work, fuel storage and sprinklers.
- OSHA or state OSHA inspectors check for hazards and violations. See OSHA Inspections.
- Environmental, stormwater and utility inspectors. See Stormwater & SWPPP.
- Insurance and owner inspectors.
Be ready
- Keep permits, approved plans, inspection records and safety documents on site and easy to find
- Schedule inspections in advance and make sure the work is complete, accessible and clean
- Keep the site orderly: clear access, exits, housekeeping and labeled hazards
- Know who is authorized to speak with inspectors and tell workers who it is
- Have records ready for training, inspections, SDSs and injury logs as applicable
During the visit
- Ask to see credentials and the reason for the visit.
- Be courteous. Escort the inspector, take notes and take your own photos of what they photograph.
- Answer questions truthfully and directly. If you do not know, say so and find out.
- Do not argue or hide problems. Fix hazards on the spot when you can, and say so.
- For OSHA, an employer may ask for a warrant if no consent is given, and employee representatives may join the walkaround. See Walkaround Representatives. Ask a supervisor or counsel before refusing entry.
- Workers may speak to inspectors privately. Retaliation is illegal. See Worker Rights.
After the visit
- Get a written report or correction notice and note deadlines.
- Fix the issues, document the corrections and schedule a re-inspection if required.
- If you disagree with a citation, know the appeal steps and deadlines. See Contesting Citations.
- Share the lessons with the crew.
Standards & references
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