2.16 Safety Inspections

Safety inspections are important to help identify and eliminate hazards. Inspections also provide employees and management a forum to discuss safety concerns. Supervisors and committee members should use the following guidelines for conducting safety inspections:

• Conduct monthly (more often if needed) general safety and health inspections.

• Identify the work area to be inspected.

• Define the items and conditions to be inspected using the Safety and Health Inspection Checklist (Sample) (see chapter 7) as a guide.

• Record and report inspection results. Use the Safety and Health Inspection Checklist (Sample) (see chapter 7) or a comparable checklist to compile a report, and use it to follow up on corrective actions.

• Follow up on all action items after the inspection.

• Review the report in the safety and health committee meeting to verify that appropriate action and follow-up have taken place.

• Keep all inspection reports on file for one year after the current year ends.