Washington — OSHA has updated the criteria it uses to direct agency enforcement resources to workplaces via its Site-Specific Targeting inspection program.
The program funnels resources to establishments that have the highest rates of injuries and illnesses “based on injury and illness data submitted in accordance with OSHA’s recordkeeping requirements.” SST is the agency’s primary planned inspection program for non-construction establishments with 20 or more employees.
Using OSHA Form 300A data from calendar years 2021-2023, establishments may be selected for inspection based on:
- Injury and illness rates from 2023 data.
- Upwardly trending injury and illness rates from 2021-2023 data at or above twice the 2022 private-sector average.
- Injury and illness rates markedly below industry averages.
- Failure to submit an OSHA Form 300A in 2023.
The new directive, announced May 20, replaces a previous SST directive from February 2023. The agency notes that it also uses national and local emphasis programs for high-risk industries and hazards.
OSHA offers a free and confidential On-Site Consultation Program for small and medium-sized businesses to help “identify workplace hazards, comply with OSHA standards, and establish and improve safety and health programs.”
The agency notes that onsite consultation services are “separate from enforcement and do not result in penalties or citations.”
