Pre-use inspections are required before use of any equipment that has a potential to result in a severe loss. A checklist is a simple way of formalising a safety inspection. A checklist gives an operator a consistent set of specific things to look for. This inspection is usually recorded in a log that is kept on the equipment and be available for review. Work equipment that hasn’t been inspected should not be used. Operators are responsible for identifying and completing the pre use checklist, management are responsible for arranging any supporting training and pro-actively monitoring that the checks are being completed.
There are plenty of basic, generic A4 inspection checklist templates on the internet but a good system is tailored for the piece of equipment being checked.
The use of checklists can assist but these, and the records made, should be tailored to the particular type of work equipment to minimise the burden to what is strictly necessary for safety. Requiring too much detail too often can lead to inspection activity becoming burdensome with the risk of a superficial 'tick box' approach or even, in some cases, the inspection activity ceasing altogether. You only need to inspect what is necessary for safety.
HSE Website Guidance: Inspection of Work Equipment
Additionally, there should be some sort of highly visual indicator that shows whether the equipment has passed or failed its inspection. Companies should also think about a robust way of storing and accessing the inspection records at any time. In the unfortunate event of an accident an inspection history will help everybody understand what happened and what safety measures were in place. Whilst having a safety checklist is a useful tool, it is not enough to discharge a duty of care; it must be part of an inspection process that is pro-actively enforced and monitored.
Further Resources:
Blog: 8 Reasons why a generic inspection checklist isn't the best solution
Blog: Getting the Best out of your Pre-Use Inspection Checklist
