The last thing you want is to fail a compliance audit. Hazardous materials are a serious matter and auditors will not overlook any issue that could pose a danger. Not only will failing result in a permanent note on your record, you will receive a fine along with the costs to remedy the issue. If your business is found to be non-compliant, you may be ordered to close until you remedy the problems. Once completed, you have to wait for someone to find time to re-examine your facility.

It’s no surprise that businesses who handle hazardous materials and items of HAZMAT are heavily regulated by the federal government. These regulations also apply to organizations that transport hazardous materials where the risk of public exposure to contaminants is greatly compounded. The first hazardous materials regulations in the United States were passed in 1975 and since then, several new laws and amendments have been enacted in the industry.

Don't let your business get caught with an OSHA violation. After August 1, 2016, the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act of 1990 expires, allowing OSHA fines to increase. This legislation allowed federal agency’s yearly fine increase to be based on inflation. OSHA is now expected to increase fines as much as 80% and to make yearly increases based on inflation rates going forward.

Knowing how to prepare for an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) inspection could mean the difference between closing the doors or thriving as a business. You should also be aware of the factors that may lead to such an event. The best way to avoid inspections, or to pass them when they do occur, is to understand and remain in compliance with OSHA regulations. Consider the following information in order to keep your business OSHA-Compliant: