The Environmental Coordinator of our university inspects work areas with hazardous materials or operations. Inspection checklist includes training, chemical safety, equipment safety, fire safety, and housekeeping.
A good way to prepare for the safety inspection is to review the following questions:
- Are all containers clearly labeled?
- Are containers of liquid hazardous materials stored in secondary containment to contain a spill/leak?
- Are incompatible chemicals stored appropriately (e.g. acids separate from bases, oxidizers separate from flammables)?
- Is access to the emergency eyewash and/or safety shower free of obstructions?
- Are emergency eyewash and showers tested (weekly) and documented on the inspection tag?
- Is proper personal protective equipment (PPE) worn and available?
- Are approved sharps waste containers available for disposal of needles, blades and other sharps?
- Are all compressed gas cylinders secured with non-combustible restraints to keep the cylinders from falling?
- Are fire extinguishers unobstructed and easily accessible?
- Are aisles, exits and hallways clear of obstructions and slipping/ tripping hazards?
- Is access to an electrical panel (if present) unobstructed (at least 36 inches of clearance)?
- Are electrical cords running in such a way as to minimize tripping hazards?
- Are objects such as chemical containers, supplies and equipment stored away from the edge of benches and shelves (unless shelf lips or other restraints)? Limit overhead storage to lightweight, non-hazardous items.
- Is sharp equipment stored safely (to prevent accidental cuts or punctures) or have guards on them?
- Are personal desk spaces and other “clean areas” in the workspace kept free of all hazardous materials?