Don't be tricked into paying for free OSHA documents

Recently, many employers have received “official looking” announcements and—in some cases—threatening notices from various companies requiring that employers must purchase OSHA documents from them in order to remain in compliance with OSHA rules and regulations. The most popular document being offered for sale is the OSHA Workplace Poster (also available in Spanish ).

We want to make sure that members do not become victim of fraudulent solicitation practices or incur unnecessary costs where these resources are concerned.

OSHA's publications and posters are available free to anyone who asks simply by visiting the publications page on the agency's Web site at http://www.osha.gov/pls/publications/pubindex.list . The publications, posters, fact sheets, etc., can be ordered through the publications office or, in most cases, downloaded directly from the Web site.

Employers in states operating OSHA-approved state plans, Such as North and South Carolina , should obtain and post the state's equivalent poster. 

Click here to download free publications from NC OSHA.

Click here to download free publications from SC OSHA.

As a reminder, employers are required to continually display a poster prepared by the Department of Labor that informs employees of protections afforded under the Occupational Safety and Health Act. The poster must be displayed in a conspicuous place where employees, as well as applicants for employment, can view it. Private employers may use the poster available from OSHA's Web site, or a suitable reproduction or facsimile.

Please remember to post you 2005 OSHA 300 Log injury summaries at your worksite starting February 1 through April 30, 2006.