If OSHA inspectors showed up at your business today, would you know what they already know about you?
Most business and building owners don’t realize this: OSHA keeps public records on citations, injuries, fatalities, and even safety inspections. And those records are searchable. Right now, anyone — including clients, competitors, and prospective partners — can look up your workplace safety history.
The good news? You can look it up too. In fact, you should. OSHA’s databases aren’t just for enforcement — they’re powerful tools you can leverage to help you stay compliant, prevent problems, and protect your people.
Let’s walk through the main OSHA databases you should know about, how to use them, and why they matter to anyone responsible for a building, jobsite, or business.
Why These Databases Matter to You
Your OSHA record says a lot about how you run your business, and that record is visible. If your company has ever been inspected or cited, it’s already listed in the federal database.
But even if you’ve never had a visit, OSHA’s other databases show patterns in your industry or region that can help you spot risks before they show up at your door. They also allow you to vet subcontractors, benchmark your practices, or prepare for a potential audit.
Each of the tools below is free to access. All you need is a company name, location, or keyword.
OSHA Establishment Search
https://www.osha.gov/pls/imis/establishment.html
This is where you can search for any business by name, address, or industry code to see past OSHA inspections. The report includes the following:
- Inspection dates
- Violation details
- Penalties and fines
- Inspection type (e.g., complaint, accident, follow-up)
Why it matters: This tool gives you a glimpse in the mirror. Look up your own business. Then look up your competitors. You might be surprised at what’s been flagged.
OSHA Data and Statistics Portal
This is OSHA’s hub for everything from annual injury rates to citation trends by NAICS code. You can:
- View top violations by industry
- See maps of high-risk regions
- Download raw data for deeper analysis
Why it matters: Use this to benchmark your company or industry. If certain violations are rising in your field, it’s time to check your own compliance.
Severe Injury Reports
https://www.osha.gov/severe-injury-reports
Employers are required to report amputations, eye losses, and hospitalizations within 24 hours. This database shows those reports by company, date, and incident type.
Why it matters: It’s a sobering reminder of what’s at stake — and a valuable tool for spotting patterns in your area or sector.
Fatality and Catastrophe Investigations
https://www.osha.gov/pls/imis/accidentsearch.html
This database lists all OSHA investigations related to worker deaths or catastrophes (defined as incidents that hospitalize three or more workers). Each entry includes:
- Employer name
- Description of what happened
- Summary of findings
Why it matters: Learn from others’ mistakes. If your work overlaps with construction, roofing, or facilities maintenance, this database is essential.
OSHA eTools and Industry Resources
This section is designed to help with training and education. OSHA offers interactive tools, industry-specific guidance, training checklists, and templates.
Why it matters: These tools can help you prevent violations before they happen and make safety training easier to roll out.
What You Can Do With This Information
- Audit your own record: Search your company in the Establishment tool. If anything’s listed, review it with your safety team.
- Check subcontractors: Don’t assume. Look up their OSHA history before awarding contracts.
- Benchmark your training: Use the eTools and data portal to see where you stand.
- Stay ahead of inspections: If your industry is seeing more activity, it might be your turn next.
Pro Tip: Don’t Wait for Trouble
Some business owners only look up their OSHA record after they get a fine. Instead, make these tools part of your planning, safety, and facilities management routines. Don’t wait for an inspector to tell you what you could have learned on your own. Check your record. Know your risks. Use the data. And keep your team safe.
For help building out your environmental health and safety (EHS) plan or to find out more about which OSHA standards affect your business, call FACS at (888) 711-9998 or contact us online here: https://facs.com/contact-us/.