observations: those potential items of interest noted by the inspector during the walk-through survey portion of the inspection.

observe: to visually notice.

obvious: a condition or fact not likely to be ignored or overlooked.

occupancy load: the number of people permitted in a building or space based on the means of egress.

occupant: any individual living in, sleeping in, or having possession of a space within a building.

oil-canning: A term that describes the distortion of thin-gauge metal panels that are fastened in a manner that restricts normal thermal movement.

operate: to cause systems to function or turn on with normal operating controls.

operational: systems or components capable of being safely operated.

oral consultation: a limited visual inspection of specific systems, structures or components of a building where no written report is prepared by the inspector, and the inspector’s findings, opinions, conclusions and recommendations are orally communicated by the inspector to the client.

OSHA: Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

owner: any person, agent, operator, firm or corporation having a legal or equitable interest in a property.