CNESST Inspection: What to Expect and How to Prepare

A CNESST inspection can happen at any time, often without prior notice. For many small business owners, this can be a stressful experience. But with the right preparation, you can turn it into a routine process.

When Does the CNESST Inspect?

Inspections can be triggered by:

• Routine scheduled visits
• A workplace accident or incident report
• A complaint from an employee
• A targeted sector-wide campaign

You do not need to be notified in advance. Inspectors have the legal right to enter any workplace during business hours.

What Do Inspectors Look For?

During an inspection, the CNESST inspector will typically verify:

• Your OHS action plan — Is it complete? Up to date?
• Risk identification — Have all 6 categories been assessed?
• Corrective measures — Are they being implemented?
• Liaison officer — Has one been designated? Trained?
• Physical workplace — Are there visible hazards?
• Documentation — Can you show records and proof?

How to Prepare Your Business

Follow this checklist before an inspector arrives:

1. Complete your action plan — Ensure it covers all 6 risk categories
2. Keep it accessible — Have a printed or easily accessible digital copy
3. Track corrective actions — Show progress on identified measures
4. Train your liaison officer — Ensure their training is up to date
5. Post required information — Emergency numbers, evacuation plans
6. Document everything — Keep records of training, incidents, and updates

What Happens After an Inspection?

After the visit, the inspector may:

• Issue a positive report — Everything is in order
• Issue a correction notice — You have a deadline to fix specific issues
• Issue a fine — For serious or repeat non-compliance
• Order a work stoppage — In cases of imminent danger

Stay Ready with PlanSST

PlanSST keeps the plan in one place and exports it as a dated PDF you can hand over: each hazard, the measure chosen against it, who owns it and by when. Whether you are compliant is still your call to make — what this removes is the blank page.

Your sector's questionnaire is free and the plan appears on screen; the PDF export and the four other documents cost $129, once → See what is included