Safety observations are counts of the number of safe and unsafe actions or conditions in a work area for a given time.
The purpose of a safety observation report is a tool used by safety officers to document hazards as well as safety commendations in the workplace. Performing and documenting regular safety observations not only ensures a safer workplace but it can also help share best practices with other teams.
Look for deviations from accepted work practices. Use statements such as: "A worker was observed operating a machine without a guard." Do not use information derived from inspections for disciplinary measures.
Identified deviations:
- using machinery or tools without authority
- operating at unsafe speeds or in other violation of safe work practice
- removing guards or other safety devices, or making the devices ineffective
- using defective tools or equipment or using tools or equipment in unsafe ways
- using hands or body instead of tools or push sticks
- overloading, crowding or failing to balance materials or handling materials in unsafe ways, including improper lifting
- repairing or adjusting equipment that is in motion, under pressure, or electrically charged
- failing to use or maintain, or improperly using, personal protective equipment or safety devices
- creating unsafe, unsanitary, or unhealthy conditions by improper personal hygiene, using compressed air for cleaning clothes, poor housekeeping, or smoking in unauthorized areas
- standing or working under suspended loads, scaffolds, shafts, or open hatches
- discussion with or observation of workers who may be overloaded, fatigued, working in conflict with others or working in isolation (working alone)
Click on the link/s below to open the resources.
Quick Safety Observation Card
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