The Free OSHA Tool Every Business Should Try

By Abbie Geigle

For many businesses, especially small ones, keeping up with workplace safety can feel overwhelming. Hiring full-time safety professionals isn’t always an option, and digging through OSHA regulations takes valuable time away from day-to-day operations. That’s where OSHA’s Hazard Awareness Advisor comes in.

This free, online tool is part of the Department of Labor’s elaws system. It’s designed to help general industry employers and workers identify potential hazards in the workplace and understand which OSHA standards may apply. Think of it as having a panel of safety experts at your fingertips—without the cost.

Here’s how it works: the Advisor guides you through a series of simple, interactive questions tailored to your workplace. Based on your answers, it generates a personalized report that highlights potential hazards, explains why they matter, and links to relevant OSHA resources. The report even includes a “Highlights” section for quick takeaways and a “Details” section for deeper guidance.

What makes this tool especially valuable is that it’s free, confidential, and practical. The information you provide isn’t shared with OSHA, so businesses can use it openly as a self-assessment resource. From small retail shops and restaurants to light manufacturing facilities, the Advisor has helped organizations of all sizes gain clearer insight into workplace risks.

Of course, it’s not a substitute for a professional safety audit, nor does it cover every hazard or industry-specific regulation. But for many businesses, it’s a smart starting point—an easy way to spot potential issues and take proactive steps toward a safer workplace.

Ready to give it a try? Visit OSHA’s Hazard Awareness Advisor here and take the first step toward a safer, healthier work environment.