Typical format of a routine health and safety inspection
Typically an inspection visit will comprise of:
At the opening conference, a broad outline of the objectives of the exercise are given. Particular concerns, if any, are discussed, measures taken in response to previously known concerns are reviewed and participants invited to raise any relevant issues. Basic information required for the Factory Inspection Report will be requested and examination of records undertaken.
Typical information required:
Records which should be available are:
The inspection party proceeds on a systematic walk around the facility. It is to be noted that under Section 95 of the Factories Act, Inspectors may question with respect to matters under this Act, any person in the workplace, either alone or in the presence of such other persons, as he thinks fit. Persons are expected to co-operate with the Inspector in this regard.
Under the Factories Act, no area of a factory is exempt from inspection. All members of the inspection party are invited to participate in the process on equal terms. Persons are encouraged to raise any matters of concern and to communicate freely with the Factory Inspector.
Matters raised during the course of the visit are reviewed, solutions to concerns explored and recommendations made. Commitments, with a time frame for action would be sought and matters considered to be of pressing importance highlighted.
A written report outlining the matters arising out of the inspection visit may follow. However, it is the duty of the occupier to take action to address concerns raised once they come to his notice. Follow-up visits to observe compliance are scheduled as considered desirable.