Four Steps to SHARP

1. Request a full-service comprehensive visit from USF SafetyFlorida and correct all hazards (serious and other-than-serious) identified by the consultant.
2. Implement and maintain a safety and health management system.
3. Score at least two on all fifty basic attributes of the Safety and Health Program Assessment Worksheet (OSHA Form 33).
4. Agree to notify USF SafetyFlorida prior to making any changes in the working conditions or work processes that might introduce new hazards into the workplace.

Exemption Period + Renewal Period

If you have satisfied all SHARP participation criteria, including a score of at least "2" on all 58 attributes of the Safety Assessment Worksheet (form 33), USF SafetyFlorida may recommend your site for final approval. Employers who meet all the requirements for recognition and exemption will have the names of their establishments removed from OSHA's Programmed Inspection Schedule for a period of not less than one year. The exemption period will extend from the date of issuance by the Regional Office of the certificate of recognition.

The renewal exemption period will be based on OSHA approval. You must apply for renewal during the last quarter of the initial exemption period. Of course, a fatality, a formal complaint, or a catastrophe involving the hospitalization of one or more employees will trigger an inspection of your site by Federal OSHA at any time during the initial or renewal periods.

Inspection Deferral

If you have otherwise met the eligibility requirements but need some time to implement an effective safety and health management system -- you may request an OSHA inspection deferral of up to 18 months. During this time you will not be inspected by OSHA, but your consultant will provide you with an action plan and will visit you on an interim basis to help you qualify for the SHARP.

Who is USF SafetyFlorida?

USF Safety Consultation Program is a confidential small business service of the University of South Florida, College of Public Health. Our service is free, because it is funded by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the State of Florida. That’s why we are able to help employers like you with OSHA regulations while reducing your cost for workers’ compensation illnesses and injuries.

Call USF SafetyFlorida to schedule a free and confidential consultation to learn if your business is eligible to be exempt from OSHA inspections. Ask us to schedule a consultant to help you keep your profits safe, lower your workers’ comp costs, and meet OSHA compliance standards – without an OSHA inspection!

You can also read about SHARP and our consultation service in this handy brochure.

SHARP brochure 822.26 kB

Contact our management team at usfsafetyflorida@usf.edu or call 1-866-273-1105.