Employment Law Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT true about the enforcement process under OSHA?

1. Inspectors do not issue citations to employers when they find violations.

2. Copies of citations must be posted near the sites of violations.

3. Employers are not required to correct violations until after their appeals have been decided.

4. OSHA inspections are generally unannounced and access must be given upon proper identification.

The correct answer is: Inspectors do not issue citations to employers when they find violations.

The statement that inspectors do not issue citations to employers when they find violations is incorrect, making it the right choice for the question. Under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforcement process, when inspectors conduct inspections and identify violations of safety standards, they are authorized to issue citations. These citations serve as a formal notification to employers about the specific violations discovered, requiring them to correct the unsafe conditions and implement the necessary changes to ensure compliance with workplace safety regulations. In addition to this, copies of citations must indeed be posted near the sites of violations, ensuring that other employees are aware of the OSHA findings and the necessary corrective actions. Employers are generally required to correct these violations in a timely manner, even if they choose to appeal the citation. Furthermore, OSHA inspections are typically unannounced, and employers are required to grant inspectors access to their facilities upon proper identification, reinforcing the effectiveness and surprise element of OSHA's enforcement measures.