Overview

On July 24, 2025, the U.S. Department of Labor announced an expansion of its self-audit programs to encourage proactive compliance with federal labor laws. Among the participating agencies is OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), which is now formally included in the government’s voluntary self-audit framework.

What This Means for OSHA

Key components of OSHA’s participation include:

  • Expansion of Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP): Employers that demonstrate exemplary workplace safety systems can voluntarily participate in OSHA’s VPP, gaining recognition while avoiding enforcement penalties.
  • Enhanced On‑Site Consultation Program: OSHA will expand outreach for its free, confidential consultation services to small and medium-sized businesses. These consultations allow employers to identify and fix safety hazards without triggering citations or enforcement actions.
Why This Matters
  • Promotes proactive compliance: Employers can self-identify and fix issues before an inspection.
  • Reduces enforcement risk: Voluntary correction in good faith can prevent fines.
  • Strengthens trust: Encourages a safety-focused culture based on transparency and responsibility.
  • Government support: Tools and resources from OSHA and the Department of Labor support self-audit efforts.
Summary of OSHA Self-Audit Program Features

Feature

OSHA Component
Voluntary audit participationExpanded Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP)
Consultation servicesOn‑Site Consultation Program for small/medium businesses
OutcomeIdentify hazards, correct proactively, reduce inspection risk
Documentation privacySelf‑audits not routinely requested during formal inspection
Enforcement benefits

Good-faith corrections reduce penalties, mitigate willfulness claims

Tools, Templates, and Enrollment

To participate in OSHA’s self-audit programs or access related tools, employers can visit the Department of Labor’s official Self-Audit Hub. There, you’ll find templates for hazard assessments, self-evaluation checklists, reporting forms, and guidance for VPP and consultation services enrollment.

More information and resources are available at: https://www.osha.gov/consultation and https://www.osha.gov/vpp