Prepare for When OSHA Interviews Employees, SHRM

SHRM spoke with partner Kaiser Chowdhry about how employers can prepare for Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) inspections and employee interviews. The article examines employers’ rights during OSHA investigations and practical considerations for managing inspections effectively.

Kaiser emphasized that employers should understand both OSHA’s authority and the limits of that authority when responding to inspections and interview requests. He noted the importance of understanding the scope of an investigation and avoiding actions that could unnecessarily expand it. He also highlighted that OSHA generally needs a subpoena to compel witness interviews, adding, “I think it’s empowering for employers to know that.” He further stressed that managers should be carefully prepared for interviews and advised, “If you don’t know, then just say you don’t know the answer.”

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