Lesson 5: Workplace Inspection Program

Glossary

Element Four of a Health and Safety Management System, Inspecting the Workplace, is important to ensure that the workplace stays healthy and safe.

You will remember that Element Two dealt with Hazard Identification and Assessment and Element Three dealt with Hazard Control; regular inspections are necessary to monitor and follow-up to ensure things do not get out of control.

  • a regular inspection program is important to ensure that hazard control measures are in place and effectively protecting workers

  • workplace inspections provide important information about hazards, potential hazards or potential hazards that have not yet been noted

  • a workplace inspection does not replace a hazard assessment; inspections monitor work-site conditions at a point in time

  • formal inspections should be conducted by a supervisor and a worker whenever possible

  • inspections look at how work is performed and identifies unsafe or unhealthy conditions so that corrective measures can be taken

  • a checklist should be used when conducting regular inspections
During the inspection, it's important to:

  • look at how the work is performed and whether it is working well
  • identify unsafe or unhealthy conditions and acts that can cause injury or illness
  • talk to workers about the tasks they perform and about any concerns they may have


After the inspection, it's important to:

  • recommend ways to eliminate or control all the identified hazards
  • give target dates and identify the person responsible
  • deal with any serious hazards immediately

 Digging Deeper


Worksite Inspection Checklist    

There are a variety of Worksite Inspection Checklists, some customized to the particular worksite.

Click here to view General Information on Inspection Checklists .

Click here to view a Sample Inspection Checklist for Manufacturing Facilities.