Workplace Housekeeping – Checklist for General Inspection Fact Sheet

WHAT IS AN EXAMPLE OF A HOUSEKEEPING INSPECTION CHECKLIST?

Use the following checklist as a general workplace guide.

Floors and Other Areas

• Are floors clean and clear of waste?
• Are signs posted to warn of wet floors?
• Are floors in good condition?
• Are there holes, worn or loose planks or carpet sticking up?
• Is anti-slip flooring used where spills, moisture or grease are likely?
• Are there protruding objects such as nails, sharp corners, open cabinet drawers, trailing electrical wires?
• Are personal items, such as clothing and lunch boxes, in assigned lockers or storage areas?
• Is the work area congested?
• Are floors well-drained?

Aisles and Stairways

• Are aisles unobstructed and clearly marked?
• Are mirrors installed at blind corners?
• Are aisles wide enough to accommodate workers and equipment comfortably?
• Are safe loading practices used with hand and power trucks, skids, or pallets?
• Is the workplace lighting adequate? Are stairs well lit?
• Are stairs covered with an anti-slip tread? Are faulty stair treads repaired?

Spill Control

• Are all spills wiped up quickly?
• Are procedures followed as indicated on the material safety data sheet?
• Are spill absorbents used for greasy, oily, flammable or toxic materials?
• Are used rags and absorbents disposed of promptly and safely?
• Is a spill area surrounded by a barrier to prevent a spill from spreading?

Equipment and Machinery Maintenance

• Is equipment in good working order, with all necessary guards or safety features operational or in place?
• Is equipment damaged or outdated?
• Are tools and machinery inspected regularly for wear or leaks?
• Is equipment repaired promptly?
• Are drip pans or absorbent materials used if leaks cannot be stopped at the source?
• Is a machine that splashes oil fitted with a screen or splash guard?
• Are machines and tools cleaned regularly?

Waste Disposal

• Are there adequate number of containers?
• Are there separate and approved containers for toxic and flammable waste?
• Are waste containers located where the waste is produced?
• Are waste containers emptied regularly?
• Are toxic and flammable waste chemicals handled properly?

Storage

• Are storage areas safe and accessible?
• Is material stacked securely, blocked or interlocked if possible?
• Are materials stored in areas that do not obstruct stairs, fire escapes, exits or firefighting equipment?
• Are materials stored in areas that do not interfere with workers or the flow of materials?
• Are bins or racks provided where material cannot be piled?
• Are all storage areas clearly marked?
• Do workers understand material storage and handling procedures?

Fire Prevention

• Are combustible and flammable materials present only in the quantities needed for the job at hand?
• Are combustible and flammable materials kept in safety cans during use?
• Are hazardous materials stored in approved containers and away from ignition sources?
• Are sprinkler heads clear of stored material?
• Are fire extinguishers inspected and located along commonly travelled routes, and close to possible ignition sources?
• Are oily or greasy rags placed in metal containers and disposed of regularly?

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