How to read an OSHA inspection record
An OSHA inspection record packs a lot into a few lines. This guide goes through the main fields in the order worth reading them, using a made-up example.
The fields that matter
- Inspection type. OSHA describes this as the reason the inspection took place, for example a planned inspection, an accident or a complaint.
- Scope. Complete, partial or records only. OSHA says scope can also show that no inspection took place if it could not go ahead.
- Dates. The open date is when it started. The close conference date is the end of the on-site part. The close case date is when all activity on the inspection ended, according to OSHA's data definitions.
- Citations. Each has a type and a standard. See citation types explained.
- Penalties. There is an initial penalty and a current penalty.
Why there are two penalty numbers
The initial penalty is what OSHA first assessed when it issued the citation. The current penalty is what is assessed now. OSHA says the current figure may differ from the initial one if a settlement or judicial action reduced it. A big gap is not unusual and does not by itself mean anything went wrong.
A made-up example
| Field | Value | How to read it |
|---|---|---|
| Inspection type | Complaint | Someone raised a concern, which is why OSHA visited. |
| Scope | Complete | The whole workplace was in scope. |
| Opened | 14 August 2026 | A recent inspection. |
| Close case date | Blank | Possibly still open. See below. |
| Citations | 3 (2 Serious, 1 Other) | Two citations at the more severe end, one minor. |
| Initial penalty | $10,500 | What was first assessed. |
| Current penalty | $9,200 | Reduced since, for example through settlement. |
Is the case open or closed?
OSHA's definitions page does not describe an open or closed field. A blank close case date can hint that the matter is still active, but treat it as a hint and not a fact. If it matters for a decision, check the official inspection page and ask the company.
Why citations can be missing
An inspection can show up before its citations do. Under section 9 of the OSH Act, OSHA generally has six months to issue a citation. So an inspection with no citations listed may be finished with none, or may be waiting. Compare the open date with today's date, and read how current the data is.
Common questions
What does a partial inspection mean?
OSHA lists the scope as complete, partial or records only. Partial means part of the workplace or operation was covered. It does not say the rest is fine.
Why do some inspections show no citations?
The inspection may have found nothing to cite, or the citations may not have been issued or recorded yet.
Where can I see the official record?
Use OSHA's Establishment Search and open the inspection number.