What should be included on an inspection checklist?

Many companies find it helpful to use checklists for inspections to ensure that important items are not overlooked. If they’re helpful, that’s fine; but inspectors should be trained to question anything which doesn’t appear safe or proper. They should not limit themselves to only what is on the checklist.

When developing a checklist, consider:

• Past problems,
• Standards which apply to your industry,
• Specific standards of concern to your facility,
• Input from employees,
• The company’s standard safety practices,
• Training completed by employees, and
• Work from job procedures or job safety analyses.

Checklists should avoid excessive detail, vague criteria, and forms or attachments that overwhelm. Remember, these are just tools to aid individuals during an inspections. Once team members are skilled inspectors, they may not need checklists.