What OSHA metrics should seniors check before hiring a home repair contractor?

✓ Accepted answer

Before hiring a home repair contractor, you should verify their OSHA Total Recordable Incident Rate and Experience Modification Rate to ensure they maintain a safe work environment. These metrics provide objective data on a company’s historical safety performance and financial risk profile.

• Check the TRIR: Review the contractor's Total Recordable Incident Rate to understand their frequency of recordable injuries and illnesses relative to industry averages. A lower rate often indicates better on-site safety management.
• Assess the EMR: Examine the Experience Modification Rate, which compares their workers' compensation claims history to similar businesses. A rate above 1.0 suggests higher-than-average injury costs and potential safety gaps.
• Request Written Programs: Ask to see their written safety and health programs, including Job Hazard Analysis procedures. This confirms they have structured protocols for managing specific risks in residential settings.
• Verify Credentials: Confirm they hold all required licenses and certifications for the specific work, such as electrical or structural modifications, to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Review History: Inquire about their injury and illness history, including any serious incidents or fatalities, to gauge their overall safety culture and responsiveness to hazards.

Warning sign: If a contractor refuses to provide safety documentation or discloses a high rate of recent serious workplace injuries, do not proceed; instead, consult a licensed professional or regulatory body for guidance before signing a contract.

admin · 2026-10-22 12:40:57