Unsafe Conditions Are Observed, Identified and Recorded (SO3-AC4)

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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