Workplace Inspections

Workplace Inspections help to identify and record hazards for corrective action. Regular inspections are an important part of your workplace health and safety program.

Why inspect?

• Listen to concerns
• Gain further understanding of jobs and tasks
• Identify existing and potential hazards
• Determine underlying causes of hazards
• Recommend corrective action
• Monitor steps taken to eliminate hazards or control the risk

Types of inspections

• Ongoing/daily
• Pre-operation
• Periodic

Hazards to look for

• Safety: inadequate machine guards, unsafe conditions or practices
• Biological: viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites
• Chemical: solids, liquids, vapours, gas, dust, fumes, mists
• Ergonomic: repetitive and forceful movements, awkward postures, workstations, tools, equipment
• Physical: noise, vibration, energy, weather, temperature, electricity
• Psychosocial: stress, burnout, bullying, harassment, violence

Inspection tips

• Look up, down, around and inside. Be methodical and thorough.
• Clearly describe each hazard and its exact location in your notes as you find them. Take photos if needed.
• Draw attention to the presence of any immediate danger.
• Shut down and "lock out" any hazardous items that cannot be brought to a safe operating standard until repaired.
• Never ignore any item because you do not have knowledge to make an accurate judgement of safety.
• Ask questions, but do not unnecessarily interfere with work activities or create a potentially hazardous situation.
• Do not operate equipment. Ask the operator for a demonstration.
• Consider what will happen if the item is both stopped and moving.
• Factor in the way the work is organized and the work pace.
• Do not rely on your senses. You may have to measure levels of exposure to chemicals, noise, radiation or biological agents.

Inspection Report

Inspection Location:
Date:
Department/Areas Covered:
Time:

Copies to:
Inspected by: