Workplace owners would get advance notice of labor inspections

The labor commissioner would give an establishment's owner at least 30 days' written notice before a visit or inspection. The visits cover manufacturing, mechanical, and mercantile establishments in New Hampshire. The proposal would take effect 60 days after passage.

The commissioner would give an establishment at least 30 days to respond to demands for documents, written answers, or interviews. The rule covers an establishment that receives one of these requests or demands. The 30-day period would apply whether or not the request is based on a complaint. The response period would run from the date of the demand or response.

The commissioner could use shorter notice or response deadlines in specified cases. The exceptions would cover visits or inspections and demands for documents, written answers, or interviews. Shorter deadlines could apply after the commissioner found a labor-law violation at the establishment in the previous 36 months, or when substantial evidence supports an imminent health or safety risk or likely evidence destruction or other interference. They could also apply when enforcing laws on boilers, elevators, youth work in hazardous jobs, or public workplace safety. An owner or representative could waive the 30-day deadline in writing after having a chance to review the notice. The proposal would take effect 60 days after passage.