Ontario Workplace Safety Inspection Checklist

Workplace Safety Inspection Checklist

This checklist is designed to assist employers and health and safety representatives in conducting routine workplace inspections in compliance with Ontario health and safety standards. Use this document to identify potential hazards, document findings, and ensure that corrective actions are tracked and resolved in a timely manner.

Inspection Details

• Inspection Date: [Date]
• Location/Department: [Department Name]
• Inspector Name: [Inspector Name]
• Supervisor/Manager: [Supervisor Name]

1. General Housekeeping and Walkways

• Are aisles and walkways clear of obstructions, debris, and tripping hazards?
• Is lighting adequate in all work areas and stairwells?
• Are floors clean, dry, and free of slip hazards?
• Are spills cleaned up immediately and warning signs posted?

2. Fire Safety and Emergency Preparedness

• Are fire extinguishers clearly visible, accessible, and inspected within the last month?
• Are emergency exits clearly marked and unobstructed?
• Are emergency exit signs illuminated and functional?
• Is the fire alarm system operational and free of obstructions?

3. Machinery and Equipment

• Are machine guards in place and functioning correctly?
• Is equipment free of frayed cords, exposed wiring, or damaged plugs?
• Are lockout/tagout procedures posted and being followed?
• Is equipment being operated according to the manufacturer’s instructions?

4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Is required PPE available and in good condition?
• Are employees wearing the appropriate PPE for their assigned tasks?
• Are eye wash stations and emergency showers accessible and functional?

5. Hazardous Materials

• Are all chemical containers clearly labeled?
• Is the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) binder accessible to all employees?
• Are hazardous materials stored in appropriate, ventilated areas?

6. Findings and Corrective Actions

Pro Tips

• Involve Workers: Conduct inspections with a worker representative to gain diverse perspectives on daily hazards.
• Document Everything: Even minor issues should be recorded to identify recurring trends or systemic safety failures.
• Follow Up: Always verify that corrective actions have been completed and are effective by performing a follow-up check.
• Photos: Take photographs of identified hazards to assist in the reporting and resolution process.

Template Document: Ontario Workplace Safety Inspection Checklist

• Purpose: This procedure establishes a systematic process for conducting workplace safety inspections to identify hazards in compliance with Ontario standards.
• Scope: This procedure covers all operational departments and applies to all employees and supervisors within the facility.

Roles and responsibilities

Procedure

1. Review previous inspection reports and outstanding hazard logs before starting the walkthrough. (Responsible: Health and Safety Representative)
2. Schedule the inspection date and time with the relevant [Department Name] supervisor. (Responsible: Health and Safety Representative)
3. Walk through the designated [Location Name] area and check all housekeeping, fire safety, and equipment items. (Responsible: Health and Safety Representative)
4. Record any observed safety deficiencies or hazards directly onto the physical inspection checklist sheet. (Responsible: Health and Safety Representative)
5. Assign a priority level and a target resolution date to every documented safety finding. (Responsible: Health and Safety Representative)
6. Discuss immediate interim safety measures with the [Supervisor Name] before leaving the inspection zone. (Responsible: Health and Safety Representative)
7. Finalize the inspection report and submit a copy to the [Facility Manager] by [Date]. (Responsible: Health and Safety Representative)
8. Implement required corrective actions within the agreed timeframe specified in the hazard log. (Responsible: Department Supervisor)
9. Verify that corrective measures are fully operational and sign off on the resolved hazard items. (Responsible: Safety Coordinator)

Records and revision

• Document owner: [Role or team]
• Effective date: [Date]
• Version: [Version number]
• Applies to: [Team, department or process]
• Prepared by: [Full name]
• Reviewed by: [Full name]
• Date completed: [Date]
• Signature: ______________________
• Date signed: [Date]

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should workplace inspections be conducted?

Under Ontario legislation, inspections should be conducted at least monthly. However, high-risk environments may require more frequent inspections to ensure ongoing compliance.

Who is responsible for conducting the inspection?

The employer is responsible for ensuring inspections occur. Typically, a member of the Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) or a health and safety representative performs the walkthrough.

What should be done if an immediate hazard is found?

If a hazard poses an immediate danger to life or health, stop work in that area immediately, isolate the hazard, and report it to management for urgent remediation.

Do I need to keep records of these inspections?

Yes. You are required to maintain records of inspections, including the findings and the actions taken to address them, as these may be requested by Ministry of Labour inspectors.