Even in the safest of facilities, failure to implement safety planning measures can lead to major injuries and in some cases, fatalities in the workplace. One of the most important planning tools is a clear safety checklist that lists the necessary conditions to ensure safety for all facility personnel.
Listing OSHA requirements and applicable safety laws that apply to your plan offers a solid starting point for creating a detailed safety checklist. Most likely, your company has already researched these requirements and taken steps to ensure compliance. Locate previous OSHA inspection reports to pinpoint any previous safety concerns.
Various industrial societies and safety research organizations offer safety knowledge and recommendations beyond minimum standard requirements. In addition to a wealth of free online information, both the American Society for Testing Materials and Underwriter’s Laboratories offer safety research, recommendations for testing safety products – think expert recommendations for building materials or fire protection products. Additionally, both organizations offer safety consultants and in depth training courses for plant managers, safety personnel or equipment operators.
When compiling a safety checklist, consider six main topics or sections to address:
- Hazardous material handling
- Fire prevention and protection
- Hot surfaces and burns
- Avoiding falls and spills
- Personal Protection
- Safe equipment operation
