Workplace inspections should be part of every organisation’s health and safety management protocol. They’re also a legal requirement in most countries such as Australia. Regular workplace inspections are essential for minimising risks as well as providing a working environment that allows for better workforce productivity.
There are some inspections that every business needs to ensure are done annually such as backflow testing Melbourne plumbing companies perform for health and safety reasons. Let’s talk about this type of inspection as well as others so you’re fully informed about compliance and safety of your workers.
5 Workplace Inspections That Should Be Done Every Year
1. Backflow Testing
Every business owner is required to install backflow prevention devices to control the risk of water contamination. Your workplace health and safety management plan should include an annual inspection of backflow prevention systems. The same regulation stipulates that all backflow prevention devices need to be inspected annually by a licensed plumber.
Installing a backflow prevention system at your business site prevents:
- Your workers from falling seriously ill as a result of contaminated water which can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses such as vomiting, nausea and diarrhea.
- Expensive liability claims.
Scheduling backflow testing annually, with a certified plumber who is well-trained and approved to conduct these tests, will give you peace of mind the water is safe for consumption.
2. Electrical Inspection
Workplace health and safety management systems should include regular electrical inspections. Regular inspection and testing of all electrical supply points, appliances, fittings and other equipment should be done. This type of inspection help prevents dangerous accidents, leading to serious injuries and even fatalities in the workplace. If this should happen, the company will be held liable, so it’s vital to prioritise these checks.
Hiring a competent electrician, certified to perform such tasks, gives you reassurance the workplace is safe. They should also fill out a detailed report for record keeping at the company. The frequency of inspection and testing depends on:
- The type of equipment and how often it’s used.
- The condition under which the electrical equipment is used.
- Nature of work it’s been used for.
A professional electrical company accredited to perform these tasks will be able to advise how often these inspections should take place.
3. Pest Control Inspection
Your responsibility as a business owner is to ensure your workers are working in a clean and safe workplace. The National Code of Practice for workplace safety in Australia stipulates a number of factors that need to be considered such as providing clean eating facilities. When proper housekeeping is neglected, pest infestation becomes a serious threat in the workplace.
Performing annual pest inspections mitigates the health risks associated with infestations. Controlling pests such as rodents and mice helps to prevent the transmission of diseases which can happen when these creatures deposit their waste in areas such as kitchens and canteens. But, rats and mice can also pose a serious health risk by contaminating drinking and cleaning water, which shows the importance of regular inspections.
4. Fire Safety Equipment and Systems Inspection
Installing fire safety equipment and systems is a legal requirement of every business owner who has a brick-and-mortar business. Fire protection systems should include:
- Installation and regular inspections of fire extinguishers and other equipment placed strategically throughout the business property.
- Adequate signage indicating location of fire safety systems and equipment as well as safe evacuation routes during fire emergencies.
Fire safety plans need to be clear and shared with all employees in the workplace. It should also include the scheduling of annual inspections of these systems and equipment. If inspection doesn’t take place annually, you run the risk of equipment becoming faulty over time, creating a hazardous workplace.
If it’s discovered that your fire safety systems and equipment weren’t in working order at the time of a fire, your insurers may not pay out for loss and damages incurred. When conducting workplace inspections, make sure you include your fire safety systems and always work with an accredited company.
5. Roof Inspection
Roofing damage can result in costly repairs for your business. Scheduling regular roofing inspections helps to mitigate this risk while also ensuring your workplace is safe for your employees. Not performing regular roof inspections can lead to the following problems:
- Water leaking into the electrical circuit, resulting in damage and fire safety risks.
- Damage to systems installed on the rooftop such as skylights.
- Infrastructural damage to the building such as damp in the walls and ceilings.
- Damage to systems installed below the roof such as HVAC units.
Annual roof inspections will include checking for broken tiles, blocked gutters and pest infestation such as birds roosting in the eaves.
Final Thoughts
Performing regular workplace inspections every year prevents a number of serious problems from cropping up when you least need them to happen! Inspecting and testing plumbing, fire safety and electrical systems keep the workplace safe and healthy for you and your employees.
Regular roof inspections also keep your facilities in top-nick and your housekeeper will be grateful when pest control is part of the workplace health and safety schedule! Best of all, you’re bound to save a lot of money—and effort—by being proactive.