What to Do When OSHA Calls: A Guide for Stone Fabricators

Frederick M Hueston StoneForensics.com

Let’s face it: the words “OSHA is coming” can send a shiver down any stone fabricator’s spine. We’ve all heard the stories—someone in the shop gets hurt, there’s a complaint, or maybe it’s just a random inspection, and the next thing you know, OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) is knocking on your door. But take a deep breath—while an OSHA visit can be stressful, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare.

As someone who’s been in the stone industry for a long time, I’ve had my share of experiences dealing with OSHA and similar agencies. So, let’s walk through what you should do when OSHA calls, and how you can be prepared as a stone fabricator.

Don’t Panic—It’s Not Always Bad News

First things first: don’t panic. An OSHA visit doesn’t automatically mean you’re in trouble. Sometimes they conduct random inspections, or they might just be responding to a minor complaint. In many cases, OSHA’s goal is to ensure that your shop is safe, and that both you and your employees are working under the best possible conditions.

Think of it like this—OSHA isn’t out to get you. They’re there to make sure your workplace is safe, and that’s something we all want. After all, the stone fabrication business has its risks, with heavy machinery, dust, and noise being just a few of the hazards. So, keeping things up to code is in everyone’s best interest.

Be Prepared Before OSHA Ever Arrives

Here’s the key to surviving an OSHA inspection: preparation. The more you’ve done ahead of time to keep your shop safe and compliant, the smoother the visit will go. So, what should you focus on?

1. Safety Program
   If you don’t already have a written safety program in place, now’s the time to create one. This should cover everything from the safe use of machines like bridge saws and CNC routers to how employees handle heavy slabs of stone. Make sure your workers know the procedures and that you regularly update and enforce these safety practices.
2. Training Records
   OSHA will want to see that your employees are trained in all relevant safety procedures. This includes things like how to properly use personal protective equipment (PPE), how to avoid silica dust exposure, and how to safely operate the machines in your shop. Keep detailed records of all training sessions—you’ll need to provide these if OSHA asks.
3. PPE and Silica Exposure
   Stone fabrication generates a lot of silica dust, and OSHA has strict rules about exposure limits. Make sure you’re providing the right protective equipment like respirators and masks, and that you’re enforcing their use. Also, ensure that your shop has proper ventilation or dust collection systems to minimize airborne silica.
4. Machine Safety
   Fabricating stone involves some heavy-duty machinery, and that equipment needs to be well-maintained and used safely. Ensure that guards are in place on cutting and polishing machines, emergency stop buttons are functional, and all moving parts are regularly inspected. If OSHA sees equipment that’s been neglected, you can bet they’ll take issue with it.
5. Recordkeeping
   Keep detailed records of everything—accident reports, safety drills, equipment maintenance logs, and even the results of internal safety audits. This is the type of documentation that will save you during an OSHA inspection.

When OSHA Arrives: Steps to Take

So, OSHA has called, and you know they’re coming to inspect your shop. What now? Here’s how to handle the visit:

1. Be Professional and Courteous
   When OSHA inspectors arrive, greet them respectfully and professionally. How you approach the situation can set the tone for the entire inspection. They’re just doing their job, and showing that you’re cooperative goes a long way.
2. Verify Credentials
   Always ask to see the inspector’s credentials before allowing them into your shop. This isn’t about being rude—it’s standard practice to make sure that you’re dealing with a legitimate OSHA representative.
3. Know Your Rights
   OSHA inspectors can inspect any part of your facility, but they can’t just roam around freely. You have the right to accompany them on their inspection and guide them through the facility. This is crucial—you’ll want to see what they’re looking at and have the chance to address any concerns on the spot.
4. Ask Questions
   If the inspector points out a violation or concern, don’t be afraid to ask questions. What are the specific issues? How can they be corrected? Is there any flexibility in how the problem is addressed? Understanding their concerns will help you fix any problems quickly and avoid future citations.
5. Take Notes and Photos
   During the inspection, take detailed notes of everything the inspector looks at and any comments they make. If they point out an issue, take photos of it yourself. This documentation will help you later, especially if you need to challenge any findings or want to ensure the problem gets fixed.

After the Inspection: What to Expect

Once the inspection is over, OSHA will issue a report detailing any violations they found. Depending on the severity of the issues, you could face anything from a warning to fines or citations. But don’t worry—most violations can be addressed fairly easily.

1. Respond Quickly
   If OSHA issues any citations, respond promptly. You’ll have a set amount of time to correct the violations and report back to OSHA. Don’t drag your feet—fixing the issues quickly not only keeps your shop safe but also shows that you’re committed to compliance.
2. Abatement and Fines
   In most cases, OSHA will give you a deadline for fixing any problems, called the “abatement period.” Make sure you address everything before this period expires. If you’ve been fined, you may be able to negotiate or reduce the amount, especially if you’re making a sincere effort to correct the issues.
3. Follow-Up
   After the initial inspection and any corrective actions, make sure to follow up. Conduct your own internal safety audits to ensure that the problems don’t reappear. This will show OSHA—and yourself—that you’re serious about maintaining a safe and compliant shop.

Stay Proactive

The best way to handle an OSHA visit is to stay ahead of the game. Regularly review your safety program, keep up with employee training, and maintain your shop and equipment. That way, when OSHA calls, you’ll be ready—and confident.

Remember, OSHA’s goal is to create a safe working environment for you and your employees. By keeping your stone fabrication shop up to code, you’re protecting your workers, your business, and your bottom line. So, if OSHA ever comes knocking, you’ll be prepared, and maybe even a little relieved, knowing that you’ve done everything right.