1. Conducting Self-Inspections

2. Preparing for an Inspection
Diagram of area
Drawings of layout, floor plan
Divide area into process
Visualize activities
Identify location of machinery, equipment and materials

3. Equipment Inventory Know what type of machinery or equipment used
Review technical data sheets or safety manuals
Read work area records to become familiar with the injury and illness potential of equipment

4. Chemical Inventory Determine what chemicals are used in area
Availability of MSDS
Determine whether actual and potential sources of chemical exposure are properly controlled
Ensure all workers have received training in handling chemicals
Chemicals have all pertinent information
Pertinent information includes labeling, hazardous materials disposal, etc..

5. Checklists Checklists should clarify
Inspection Responsibilities
Inspection Activities
Provides a report of inspection activities
Permit easy on-the-spot recordings of findings and comments
Use as a tool
Don’t become too intent on noting checklist details where you miss other hazardous conditions

6. Records Past Inspection Records show what has been identified
Show what the inspection team concentrated on and what areas
Maintained by Department Head and Reviewed by Safety Committee
Maintain records for at least three years
Review of records should be determined internally.

7. A Few Basic Principles
Draw attention to the presence of any immediate danger
Ask Operator to operate equipment or questions about the equipment
Never ignore an item because of lack of knowledge to make an accurate judgment of safety
Clearly Describe each hazard and exact location
Record “on-the spot”
Ask questions but don’t disrupt work activities
Take immediate action as needed
Discuss as a group
Bullet #6 – This may interfere with efficient assessment of the job function and could possibly create a hazard
Bullet #7 – Correction or control methods

8. Reporting
Ensure inspection reports are distributed to appropriate and designated individuals
State what was detected and exact location
Ensure Responses include
Items completed (Date)
Projected date of completion
Work Request issued
Reason if hazard will/cannot be corrected
Interim measures
Use Data for Tracking and Trending
Recommend responses be attached to the inspection report
Process should be implemented for unresolved items and safety office as a resource in resolving issues.