Conducting Self-Inspections

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

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

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..

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

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.

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

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.