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