Inspection Overview
Periodic inspections are done to identify and evaluate workplace hazards that cause injury or damage to the facility. Inspections are a critical component to ensure compliance with health and safety requirements and that new hazards that arise are identified and addressed.
Scheduled Inspections by Supervisors
Supervisors and/or Department Safety Coordinators shall conduct scheduled safety inspections at least annually of all work operations within their purview. These inspections must include identifying unsafe physical conditions and unsafe performance of work tasks. Supervisors must ensure any issues identified during an inspection are corrected. Supervisors are also responsible for documenting the inspections and corrective actions.
Documentation shall include:
- Identity of the individual conducting the assessment/inspection.
- Clear narrative of the unsafe condition(s) and/or work practice(s).
- Corrective actions to be taken and dates by which the actions will be completed.
Areas where inspections should take place:
- Offices – Including departmental areas, breakrooms & departmental kitchen areas
- Laboratories – areas where chemical, biological, laser or other physical hazards exist
- Shops – include Carpenter, Plumbing, Electrical, Auto shop & Central plant
- Storage areas – including Maintenance, Grounds and large custodial storage areas
- Arts & Theatre- including costume shop, prop storage, theatre (including rigging and cat walk) & scene shop
Periodic Inspections by EHS
EHS shall conduct scheduled periodic safety inspections across campus work spaces. Areas identified as high risk due to the nature of work performed and/or materials used to perform the work, may have a higher frequency of inspection. Any issues identified that require corrective action will be communicated in writing to the appropriate supervisor and a due date within which to complete the corrective actions, provided. EHS may re-inspect work spaces to verify satisfactory completion of corrective actions. Disciplinary action may be taken against employees who do not comply with completion of corrective actions. EHS will document and maintain a record of these inspections.
Reporting Hazards or unsafe practices
Employees are encouraged to report existing or potentially hazardous conditions or unsafe work practices to their supervisor so that necessary action (including training, purchase of appropriate equipment, etc.) can be taken in a timely manner.
Supervisors or the Department Safety Coordinator, or members of safety committees should make a notification to management or EH&S when made aware of an unsafe condition for which an immediate remedy cannot be implemented. Corrective actions shall be identified and completed by the department.
Additionally if employees need additional support when reporting a hazard or unsafe working condition, they can reach out to EH&S by calling 310-243-3000. Employees who reach out to report can’t be disciplined and complaints can be made anonymously.