20 Questions to Ask When Hazard Spotting

20 Questions to Ask When Hazard Spotting

1. Are paths, car park surfaces, carpets and rugs in good condition and unlikely to cause people to slip, trip or fall?  
2. Are indoor walking surfaces non-slippery even if the liquid is spilled on them?  
3. Do people walk not run? Do people wear sensible shoes?  
4. Are paths and car parks kept snow and ice-free during the winter months?
5. Are filing cabinet drawers always closed when not in use?  
6. Are electrical cords always stored tidily?
7. Are all staircases equipped with handrails? Does everyone hold on to handrails?  
8. Will people look for a step ladder or footstool rather than use a chair to reach a high object?  
9. Do people use an elevator when carrying heavy loads or hot drinks?  
10. Do people always have one hand free when carrying something up or downstairs?
11. Has everything possible been done to prevent falls from regularly accessed locations above ground?
12. Is a robust footstool or step ladder provided where people have to access high shelves or cabinets?  
13. Do step ladders over six feet provided for retrieval of objects from top shelves or cabinets have handrails to prevent falls?  
14. Are all jobs involving working at heights covered by a permit and procedure?
    a. Even brief “inspection” type jobs?
    b. Even for roof access using permanent or temporary ladders or stairs?
15. Are people working on ladders working safely?  
16. Is the ladder always secure (tied off or held)?  
17. Are nonmetallic ladders used for electrical work?  
18. Are they working within easy reach (i.e., not overreaching)?
19. Is the use of ladders controlled and are they regularly inspected?
    a. Even contractors own equipment?
20. Are handrails, walkways, and carparks checked for damage and wear?  Do people report damage?

Learn how EXP’s Observations module can help you conduct effective hazard spotting using best practices.