Who must perform inspections?

Generally, inspections are performed by a member or a team of members from the safety committee. In addition, supervisors, maintenance personnel, engineers, etc. may conduct inspections or be part of the inspection team. These individuals will provide valuable insight into particular production processes or work hazards unique to the area. Additional benefits include the following:

• Questions about equipment and processes can be answered immediately.
• Some infractions may be able to be fixed on the spot.
• Utilizing several people to do inspections improves the odds of finding hazards.
• Individuals responsible for safety and health are kept in touch with the successes and/or problems in the workplace.
• Involvement increases employee awareness of the safety and health program.

Consider rotating inspection personnel on a regular basis. Those who work in or supervise a particular area can start “not seeing” things that they get used to seeing every day. Remember, new eyes see different things.