MODULE 5: HAZARD IDENTIFICATION AND CONTROL

The Hazard Inspection

To identify and control hazards in the workplace before an incident or accident occurs, two basic strategies are used. First, and most common is the walkaround inspection. You've probably participated in a safety inspection, or at least have watched others conduct one, so this isn't something really new. But, I'll wager that most walkaround could be conducted in a more "profitable" manner.

Who's doing the inspecting around here?

• Most organizations conduct quarterly safety committee inspections. But, is that good enough? Safety committee inspections may be effective, but only if the safety committee is properly educated and trained in hazard identification and control concepts and principles specific to your company. In high hazard industries that experience change on a daily basis, it takes more to keep the workplace safe from hazards.
• In supportive safety cultures supervisors, as well as all employees inspect their areas of responsibility as
  often as the hazards of the materials, equipment, tools, environment, and tasks demand. It's really a
  judgment call, but if safety is involved, it's better to inspect often. A good policy is to inspect at the
  beginning and end of each shift.
• Employees should inspect the materials, equipment, and tools they use. They should examine their workarea or workstation for hazardous conditions at the start of each workday. They should inspect equipment such as forklifts, trucks, and other vehicles before using them at the start of each shift. Again, it's better to inspect closely and often: How about prior to and after each shift.