Occupational Safety and Health Inspector

A small child dreaming of the ideal job may think of becoming a superhero, bound to protect and serve the public. An Occupational Safety and Health Inspector may not wear a cape or fight aliens from outer space, but the task list is much the same. In this job as an Occupational Safety and Health Inspector, you strive every day to protect employees, the environment, and the public from business-related hazards.

It’s likely that you work directly for the state or federal government if you chose a career as an Occupational Safety and Health Inspector. When an employee or a public group makes a complaint about a company, you’re sent in to inspect the place and make a recommendation. Periodically, you inspect businesses in your area to make sure they’re following the rules at all times.

During your inspection, you see to it that chemicals are stored and labeled properly, that the air is clean both inside and outside of the company, that the floors and countertops are relatively free of bacteria, and that employees have ergonomic workstations to use as they slog through the day’s work.

Sometimes, you take a break from inspections to teach employees how to stay safe on the job. For example, you show them how to use their chairs properly, how to put on protective ear guards, or how to run certain types of machines.

If you find a major problem, such as improper storage of hazardous waste or equipment held together with duct tape, you call your Supervisor immediately and ask for advice. These companies may need to be shut down immediately. Minor problems can be detailed in the report you write when you arrive at your home office. You may even add photos to make your report look pretty.