Top 30 OSHA Interview Questions & Expert Answers
1. What is OSHA, and what is its primary purpose?
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) is a U.S. federal agency under the Department of Labor. Its primary purpose is to ensure safe and healthy working conditions by enforcing workplace safety regulations and providing training, outreach, education, and assistance.
2. What are the key responsibilities of an OSHA Compliance Officer?
An OSHA Compliance Officer inspects workplaces for safety violations, investigates complaints and accidents, enforces OSHA standards, conducts interviews with employees, and provides guidance on compliance with safety regulations.
3. What are the most common OSHA violations in the workplace?
The most common OSHA violations include:
- Fall protection (e.g., unprotected edges, lack of guardrails)
- Hazard communication (e.g., improper labeling of chemicals)
- Scaffolding safety
- Respiratory protection
- Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures
4. What is the General Duty Clause under OSHA?
The General Duty Clause (Section 5(a)(1) of the OSH Act) requires employers to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards that could cause death or serious harm, even if no specific OSHA standard applies.
5. What is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), and why is it important?
An SDS provides detailed information about hazardous chemicals, including their properties, health effects, protective measures, and emergency procedures. It is essential for hazard communication and worker safety.
6. What are the OSHA requirements for emergency action plans?
An emergency action plan must include:
- Procedures for reporting emergencies
- Evacuation routes and assembly points
- Employee training and drills
- Roles and responsibilities during emergencies
7. What is the difference between OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 training?
- OSHA 10: A 10-hour course for entry-level workers covering basic safety topics.
- OSHA 30: A 30-hour course for supervisors/managers with in-depth training on OSHA standards and compliance.
8. What are the OSHA recordkeeping requirements for workplace injuries?
Employers must record work-related injuries/illnesses on OSHA Form 300 (Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses), Form 300A (Summary), and Form 301 (Incident Report) if they have more than 10 employees (with some exemptions).
9. What is the purpose of a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA)?
A JHA identifies potential hazards for specific job tasks and recommends safety controls to prevent accidents. It helps in risk assessment and improving workplace safety.
10. What are the OSHA standards for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?
OSHA requires employers to:
- Assess workplace hazards
- Provide appropriate PPE (gloves, goggles, helmets, etc.)
- Train employees on proper PPE use and maintenance
11. What is Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), and why is it important?
LOTO procedures prevent accidental machine startup during maintenance by isolating energy sources. It protects workers from electrocution, crushing, or other injuries.
12. How often should fire extinguishers be inspected according to OSHA?
Fire extinguishers must be inspected monthly and undergo a full maintenance check annually by a certified professional.
13. What are the OSHA requirements for confined space entry?
OSHA’s Permit-Required Confined Spaces (PRCS) Standard (29 CFR 1910.146) mandates:
- Hazard evaluation
- Entry permits
- Atmospheric testing
- Rescue procedures
- Employee training
14. What is the maximum allowable height for a ladder without fall protection?
OSHA requires fall protection for fixed ladders over 24 feet and portable ladders extending beyond 20 feet.
15. What is the OSHA permissible exposure limit (PEL) for noise?
The PEL for noise is 90 decibels (dBA) over an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). Employers must implement hearing conservation programs if exposure exceeds 85 dBA.
16. What are the key elements of an OSHA-compliant hazard communication program?
- Written hazard communication plan
- Proper labeling of chemicals
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS) accessibility
- Employee training
17. What should be included in an OSHA-compliant fall protection plan?
- Identification of fall hazards
- Selection of proper fall protection systems (guardrails, harnesses, nets)
- Employee training
- Rescue procedures
18. What is the difference between an OSHA standard and an OSHA regulation?
- Standards: Specific rules for hazards (e.g., fall protection, electrical safety).
- Regulations: Broader legal requirements under the OSH Act.
19. What are the OSHA requirements for first aid in the workplace?
Employers must provide:
- First aid supplies
- Trained personnel (if no infirmary/clinic is nearby)
- Emergency response plans
20. How does OSHA classify workplace violations?
- Willful Violation: Intentional disregard (highest penalties).
- Serious Violation: High risk of harm.
- Other-than-Serious: Minor hazards.
- Repeat Violation: Recurring issue.
21. What is the OSHA requirement for exit routes in a workplace?
- Must be unlocked, unobstructed, and clearly marked.
- At least two exits (if more than 50 employees).
- Minimum width of 28 inches.
22. What is the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard?
It protects workers exposed to blood/body fluids by requiring:
- Exposure control plans
- PPE (gloves, masks)
- Hepatitis B vaccinations
- Post-exposure follow-up
23. What is an OSHA whistleblower protection program?
Employees who report safety violations are protected from retaliation under Section 11(c) of the OSH Act.
24. What are the OSHA requirements for scaffolding safety?
- Proper assembly by trained workers
- Guardrails/midrails for heights over 10 feet
- Regular inspections
25. What is the role of OSHA in incident investigations?
OSHA investigates workplace fatalities, severe injuries, and complaints to determine violations and enforce corrective actions.
26. What are the OSHA requirements for electrical safety?
- Proper grounding
- Lockout/Tagout for live circuits
- Use of insulated tools
- Regular equipment inspections
27. What is the OSHA requirement for forklift operator training?
Operators must be:
- Trained and certified
- Evaluated every 3 years
- Trained on specific equipment types
28. What is the OSHA requirement for eyewash stations?
Required where employees are exposed to corrosive chemicals, with stations accessible within 10 seconds.
29. How does OSHA enforce workplace safety?
Through inspections, citations, penalties, and compliance assistance programs.
30. What steps should an employer take after an OSHA inspection?
- Review citations
- Correct violations by the deadline
- Request an informal conference if disputing findings
- Implement long-term safety improvements
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