Pre-Work Safety Checklist: Reduce Risks Before Accidents Happen | SCHAKE

What is a Safety Checklist?

A Safety Checklist is a list of safety inspections to be completed before starting work. Workers or supervisors use it to check various factors that could potentially cause hazards, such as the work area, machinery, tools, PPE, and work procedures.

The key principle is: “Identify the risk first, fix it first, then start the work.”

1.Inspect the Work Area
-The work area is clean and organized.
-There are no oil, water, or chemical spills on the floor.
-Walkways and emergency exits are free of obstructions.
-Adequate lighting is provided.
-Hazardous areas are properly barricaded or restricted.
-Warning and safety signs are clearly visible.
-Emergency exits are accessible and ready for use.

2. Inspect Machinery and Equipment
-The machinery is in good working condition and ready for use.
-All machine guards and protective devices are properly installed.
-There are no damaged electrical or air hoses.
-Emergency stop buttons are functional and accessible.
-There are no unusual noises, odors, or abnormalities coming from the machinery.
-Tools are appropriate for the type of work being performed.
-Tools are free from damage that could cause injury or accidents.

If any machinery or equipment is found to be abnormal or damaged, stop using it immediately and notify the person in charge. Do not continue using faulty equipment simply to finish the job faster.

3. Inspect Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) refers to equipment designed to help reduce the severity of hazards and injuries that workers may encounter while performing their duties.

PPE should be checked to ensure that:
-Wear a safety helmet appropriate for the type of work.
-Wear safety glasses or appropriate face protection.
-Wear gloves suitable for the specific type of work.
-Wear safety shoes.
-Wear a high-visibility safety vest when working in areas where it is required.
-Use hearing protection in high-noise environments.
-Use a mask or respiratory protective equipment when there is a risk of exposure to hazardous substances or airborne particles.

-Check PPE for cracks, tears, damage, or other defects.
Proper PPE is not simply about “having it” — it must be “suitable for the job and used correctly.”

4. Assess Risks Before Starting Work
Before starting any task, workers should ask themselves:

“What hazards are associated with this job?”
Examples of potential risks to consider include:

-Falls from height.
-Being caught, crushed, or pinched by machinery.
-Being struck by falling objects.
-Electric shock.
-Chemical leaks or splashes.
-Heat and sparks.
-Excessive noise.
-Slippery surfaces or tripping hazards.
-Lifting or moving heavy objects.

When a hazard is identified, appropriate control measures should be implemented before starting work, such as barricading the area, isolating energy sources, using appropriate PPE, or modifying the work procedures.

5. Check the Work Procedures
Workers should understand the work procedures before starting any task, especially when performing high-risk activities.

-Understand the work procedures and instructions.
-Receive the required training or authorization to perform the task.
-Understand the potential hazards and preventive measures.
-Obtain a work permit if required for the task.
-Ensure that a responsible person or supervisor is assigned to oversee the work.
-Have an emergency response plan in place.

For machinery maintenance or work involving hazardous energy sources, consider using Lockout Tagout (LOTO) to prevent the equipment from being accidentally started or energy from being released during the work.

6. Check Emergency Equipment
Accidents can still happen even when proper preventive measures are in place. Therefore, emergency equipment should always be checked and kept ready for use.

-Fire extinguishers are easily accessible and located in designated areas.
-First-aid equipment is complete and ready for use.
-Emergency eyewash stations are available and ready for use in areas where there is a risk of chemical exposure.
-Emergency exits are clear of obstructions.
-Everyone knows the designated emergency assembly point.
-Emergency contact information and communication channels are readily available

Why Should You Use a Safety Checklist Before Starting Work?
Spending just a few minutes on a safety inspection before starting work can help identify potential hazards that might otherwise be overlooked. It also ensures that everyone on the team has a clear and consistent understanding of the hazards present in the work area.

Key Benefits Include:
Reduce Accidents – Identify and address potential hazards before an incident occurs.

Minimize Damage – Help prevent damage to machinery, equipment, and property.

Increase Work Confidence – Employees know what they need to do and how to protect themselves while working.

Build a Safety-First Culture – Make safety an integral part of everyday work practices.

Improve Work Efficiency – When the work area and equipment are properly prepared, tasks can be carried out more systematically and efficiently.

Safety Starts Before Work
Safety does not begin when an accident occurs. It begins before the work starts.

Spending just a few minutes checking the work area, tools, machinery, PPE, and assessing potential risks can help prevent incidents that could lead to injuries or losses.

“Check Before You Start, Stay Safe Before an Accident Happens.”

Ensuring that everyone returns home safely is the most important goal of every workday.

SCHAKE – Safety Starts With Us
Choose safety equipment that is appropriate for the type of work and prioritize safety at every step to create a safer workplace for everyone.