Audits that Protect Employees and Business

In 2009, OSHA’s Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries counted 4, 551 fatal work injuries in the U.S., while the Bureau of Labor Statistics counted 3.3 million nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses. These stats show the need for safety audits in the workplace. David Regelbrugge, Senior Manager at Environ, lists six essential steps to properly conducting a safety inspection: do initial research; perform an opening meeting and walkthrough; review written programs and records; complete a detailed walkthrough; review findings; and follow-up with the facility. These steps help the auditor properly communicate to businesses before and after s/he performs the audit. Regelbrugge says a key goal is to become familiar with the people and the processes. In addition, post-audit reviews and follow-ups effectively enable a company to improve safety standards.