Final answer:
An inspector must report any significant health or safety issues or potential major costs to the client. These reports are vital for enforcing workplace safety standards and protecting employees who report hazards, as per OSHA's guidelines.
Step-by-step explanation:
When it comes to health and safety, inspectors play a vital role in ensuring that workplaces and environments adhere to standards designed to protect individuals. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), inspections are crucial tools for enforcing regulations and minimizing potential hazards. In the event of imminent danger, catastrophes, complaints, or violations of safety standards, an inspector must report any serious health or safety issues or potential major costs to the client. This is reflective of OSHA's priority system which also emphasizes the importance of worker complaints and the protection of employees who report unsafe conditions.
For instance, employees have the right to reject tasks they believe are unsafe without fear of retribution, and can request an OSHA inspection if they suspect a serious hazard or violations are present at their workplace. In addition, OSHA stipulates that an employer cannot discriminate against an employee for exercising their rights to report hazards, emphasizing the importance of a safe work environment.
In summary, any problems that, in an inspector's opinion, pose a serious health or safety issue or could lead to significant costs for the client, must be communicated to the client. This ensures that proactive measures are taken to eliminate or mitigate risks, maintaining the health and safety of all parties involved.