Safety Walk-Through and How You Can Prepare Your Workspace Using This Checklist

Safety Walk-Through and How You Can Prepare Your Workspace Using This Checklist

Every year, we conduct a building walk-through for all buildings on all campuses.  Though we don’t use an official checklist on our walk through, here is a list you could use to get your workspace in compliance with university, state and federal regulations.  

FIRE SAFETY AND PREVENTION 
  • Exit lights – present and clearly illuminated 
  • Exit doors, fire doors – not wedged open, close tightly, not blocked 
  • Emergency lighting – adequate, in working condition 
  • Fire extinguishers- should have a clear and open space around them and easily accessible 
  • Sprinkler clearance – no storage is allowed within 18 inches of sprinkler heads (24 inches of ceiling where no sprinkler system exists) 
  • Exits – unobstructed  
  • Storage – none in the staircases including underneath the stairs 
  • Floors, Walls, Ceilings – Check for holes in the wall and ceiling, missing floor tiles and ceiling tiles.  Put in a work order to facilities if you see any of these violations 
ELECTRICAL HAZARDS 
  • Extension cords and power strips – not plugged in to other extension cords or power strips. No large appliances should be plugged into an extension cord 
  • Power strips UL listed and have circuit breakers. 
  • Plugs are in good condition – there are no exposed wires or holes near the outlet 
  • Wall outlet plate and junction box covers – in place 
  • Electric circuit panels – kept clear (at least 36 inches open area) and closed 
  • Wires or extension cords – do not run under carpets or rugs, through doorways, or placed in other traffic areas  
WALKING SURFACES 
  • Aisles – kept clear (minimum 36″) and free from trip hazards like cords,
  • Tripping hazard – carpets, rugs, and mats do not present trip hazard