It is basically a physical check to identify the presence of hazards requiring control. This involves visiting each workplace and critically examining it for hazards. In addition to physical check of the workplace, another important purpose of a safety inspection is to confirm that correct procedures are being followed and statutory requirements are being complied with.

Appropriate checklists should be developed to ensure that safety inspections are conducted in a systematic manner. While model checklists have been developed by HSEO covering general workplace situations and activities, it may be necessary for individual departments to develop additional checklists appropriate to their own situations and activities.

The Health, Safety and Environment Office (HSEO) will also conduct scheduled inspections of selected workplaces. However, safety inspections conducted by HSEO should not be taken as a substitute for safety inspections conducted internally by the Department.