Safety Inspections
A safety inspection is an on-site walk through to identify potential hazards to occupants and personnel and options for remedial action. Safety inspections are also important for property insurance issues. A review of safety equipment (Emergency eyewash, shower, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, etc.) is also completed to verify proper working order.
After completion of a safety inspection, the responsible area supervisor, building coordinator, campus facilities maintenance and appropriate personnel is contacted for remedial action. These actions prevent future incidents, injury/illness, or property/equipment damage.
What Do Safety Inspections Focus On?
General safety inspections are conducted by the Safety Representative or the Assistant Fire Marshal and focus on the NFPA Life Safety Code 101, which "provides minimum requirements for the design, operation, and maintenance of buildings and other structures for safety to life from fire and similar emergencies." This includes, but is not limited to, points of egress, electrical concerns, and storage issues.
Periodic self-inspections (PDF) of your work area will prevent injury/illness and will maintain a safe work environment.
What Kinds of Inspections are Performed by EHS?
Different branches of EHS inspect several areas on campus for different reasons:
- Hazardous Materials Management inspects areas using and storing hazardous materials.
- Radiation Safety inspects areas using and storing radioactive materials.
- There are also property insurance inspections, food safety inspections, and general safety inspections.
While each inspector has a specific list of items to look for, we all work together to spot problems areas for other EHS branches.
How Do I Address Building Issues?
If the problem includes storage, fire extinguishers, plumbing, exit or emergency lighting, or similar issues contact your building coordinator. A list of building coordinators can be found in the MU phone directory. The building coordinator will get in contact with Campus Facilities or EHS as needed.
For more information on Safety Inspections please contact David Dorth or Shawn McGruder.
