📖 Introduction
Inspections are systematic workplace checks carried out to identify hazards and ensure control measures are in place.
Unlike audits, which review systems, inspections are more task-focused and usually more frequent.
They form an essential part of proactive monitoring in the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle.
🎯 Learning Outcomes
- Understand the purpose of inspections.
- Identify the frequency and planning requirements of inspections.
- Recognise who should carry out inspections.
- Explain how inspection findings should be reported and followed up.
🔍 Purpose of Inspections
Inspections provide organisations with:
- Early identification of hazards before accidents occur.
- Verification that control measures are working.
- Evidence of compliance with legal and company standards.
- Opportunities for worker participation in safety management.
📅 Frequency of Inspections
The frequency of inspections depends on:
- Level of risk in the workplace.
- Legal requirements or industry standards.
- History of incidents or near-misses.
- Changes in equipment, processes, or staff.
👷 Who Should Carry Out Inspections?
Inspections should be conducted by competent persons such as:
- Supervisors or line managers
- Health and safety officers
- Trained employee representatives
📝 Reporting and Follow-Up
Findings from inspections should be recorded and followed up. Key steps include:
- Documenting hazards and unsafe practices.
- Assigning corrective actions with deadlines.
- Monitoring implementation and closing actions.
- Reviewing inspection effectiveness during audits.
🔑 Summary
- Inspections identify hazards and ensure controls are effective.
- They are proactive measures that complement audits and reviews.
- Effective follow-up is essential for inspections to improve safety.
🚀 What’s Next in IG1
Lecture 12: Incident Investigation
We will study how to investigate workplace accidents, incidents, and near-misses effectively.