Hazard Identification - Action Item 2

Action Item 2: Inspect the workplace for safety hazards.

While this may seem obvious, it is at times difficult to remember the many elements of a workforce requiring inspection. Management can ensure the workplace is appropriately inspected through the following actions:

• "Conduct regular inspections of all operations, equipment, work areas and facilities.
• Have workers participate on the inspection team and talk to them about hazards that they see or report.
• Be sure to document inspections so you can later verify that hazardous conditions are corrected. Take photos or video of problem areas to facilitate later discussion and brainstorming about how to control them, and for use as learning aids.
• Include all areas and activities in these inspections, such as storage and warehousing, facility and equipment maintenance, purchasing and office functions, and the activities of on-site contractors, subcontractors, and temporary employees.
• Regularly inspect both plant vehicles (such as forklifts, powered industrial trucks) and transportation vehicles (such as cars and trucks)."

OSHA also recommends using checklists to ensure inspection of all necessary items. While each workplace is different, these general categories are a good place to start when considering checklists:

• General housekeeping
• Slip, trip, and fall hazards
• Electrical hazards
• Equipment operation
• Equipment maintenance
• Fire protection
• Work organization and process flow (including staffing and scheduling)
• Work practices
• Workplace violence
• Ergonomic problems
• Lack of emergency procedures

Management should also remember to get the input of workers before changing operations, workstations, or workflow.

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