# How to Prepare for an OSHA HazCom Inspection: Be Audit-Ready
An OSHA inspection can happen anytime. For Hazard Communication (HazCom), inspectors focus on four things: a written program, SDS access, container labeling, and proof of training. If you can show all four in minutes, you're audit-ready. If not, you're at risk of citations and fines.
This guide explains what inspectors look for, the most common HazCom citations, and how to use free tools and a clear workflow to be inspection-ready.
What OSHA inspectors look for (29 CFR 1910.1200)
Under the Hazard Communication Standard, employers must:
1. Have a written HazCom program that describes how you meet the standard (labels, SDS, training, inventory).
2. Keep Safety Data Sheets readily accessible to employees during their work shift.
3. Ensure containers are labeled (product identifier and hazard information; GHS for workplace containers).
4. Train employees and maintain a record of who was trained, on what, and when.
Inspectors will ask to see each of these. "We have it somewhere" or "the safety person has it" is not enough. Workers must be able to access SDSs; you must be able to produce the written program and training documentation.
Penalties (2025 federal): Serious violations can be up to $16,550 per violation; willful or repeated up to $165,514 per violation. If you receive a citation, you have 15 working days to contest—this deadline is absolute. Use that window to correct gaps and, if needed, request an informal conference.
Common HazCom citations (and how to avoid them)
Use a [written HazCom program generator](/tools/hazcom-program-generator) and update it when chemicals or locations change. Keep it where employees can access it.
SDSs must be available during the shift—electronically or in print—without barriers. See [Are Digital SDS Legal?](/blog/are