What to do if an occupational health and safety inspector visits you?

In day-to-day business operations, employers often focus on invoices, balance sheets, clients, and deadlines. However, many forget one of their most important obligations – ensuring a safe and healthy working environment for employees.

That is precisely the main task of the occupational health and safety inspector, who can visit your company unannounced at any time.

THE INSPECTOR ARRIVES – WITHOUT NOTICE

An inspection may be carried out:

• ex officio (regular inspection),
• based on a report from employees or third parties.

Upon arrival, the inspector identifies themselves and immediately begins the inspection, without prior notice to the employer.

WHAT DOES THE INSPECTOR CHECK?

The inspector verifies whether all obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act are fulfilled. This includes the following documents and measures:

• Report on testing of work equipment – equipment must be technically sound.
• Expert assessment of working conditions – lighting, noise, microclimate, and other working conditions.
• Occupational health and safety regulations – internal document tailored to the business activity and number of employees.
• Risk assessment act – key document for identifying hazards and defining protective measures.
• Training programs and records of employee training – training upon hiring, reassignment, or introduction of new technologies.
• Protective measures when working with display screens.
• Designated first aid staff – sufficient number of employees with valid certificates.
• Employee insurance – against workplace injuries, occupational diseases, and work-related illnesses.

Depending on the industry, the inspector may also request additional documentation.

WHAT IF IRREGULARITIES ARE FOUND?

After the inspection, the inspector may:

• order the elimination of irregularities within a specified deadline,
• impose an on-the-spot fine,
• draft and submit an official report to the competent inspection authority.

The best way to avoid unpleasant situations and fines is prevention. Don’t wait for the inspector to “knock on your door” – check in advance whether you have all the required documentation and safety measures in place.

As an experienced accounting agency, we help our clients be fully prepared for inspection control. If you are not sure whether you are meeting all obligations – we are here to check it for you.