Safety inspections can save lives. Use inspections to:
- Identify and correct unsafe conditions and work practices before an accident occurs;
- Evaluate the effectiveness of your current safety training; and
- Assess to what extent employees follow safety rules.
When developing an inspection program, identify your needs. List all hazards associated with your operations and divide them into two categories: unsafe work practices and unsafe conditions.
Even if all your machinery is guarded and your facility is properly maintained, about 80% of accidents will still occur due to unsafe work practices. That's why it's important to observe work practices as part of any safety inspection. Here are examples of unsafe work practices:
- Improper material handling;
- Horseplay;
- Drug and alcohol abuse;
- Removing machine guards;
- Improper or non-use of personal protective equipment;
- Improper or non-use of machine lockouts;
- Unsafe operation of tools and power equipment.
Approximately 98% of all accidents are influenced by unsafe conditions. That's why your inspection should list possible hazards. Here are examples of unsafe conditions:
- Defective hand tools;
- Uneven or slippery walking surfaces;
- Faulty electrical wiring;
- Improper storage of flammable or other hazardous materials;
- Unsafe overhead storage;
- Unguarded machinery.
Checklists serve as reminders of what to inspect. They also direct the inspections and allow for immediate recording of all findings and recommendations.
In larger organizations, it's often wise to develop a separate checklist for each department. Each plant, department or crew can create its own list specific to its area. Simply checking off items on the list will not suffice. Use the checklist as an inspection tool. Record any and all hazards you see during the inspection, even if they don't appear on your checklist.
