Wear | October 2023

Ready-made safety checklist for managers

Safety starts and ends with managers. Whether you’re a Site Manager, Team Leader, Floor Supervisor or Trade Supervisor, you have a responsibility to keep your people safe. And not just your team but also subcontractors and visitors.

Those are big safety boots to fill.

We created this safety checklist to help you out. It ticks off the major hazards you might encounter during work, giving you a head start on safety.

Safety requirements are specific to workplaces. This checklist is designed to prompt your thinking about safety. It does not replace regular safety inspections, communication, or site-specific safety guidelines.

Essential safety checklist for managers

Hazard detection process

Injury risks aren’t always easy to spot. Managers, workers, contractors and visitors should be vigilant about identifying, reporting and managing potential hazards.

Prioritize hazard removal
Make safety signage visible
Clearly mark hazards that cannot be removed
Watch for slip, trip and fall hazards
Ensure all personnel are clear on hazard detection and notification processes
Document all hazards, near-misses and incidents
Test and tag electrical equipment
Isolate hazardous materials until proper safe removal procedures can be followed

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Working at heights or confined spaces

Falling from heights is one of the most common injury causes across the board. Too many preventable injuries occur because workers are rushed or inattentive to risk.

As a Manager, it’s your job to ensure everyone looks out for each other and that small jobs earn the same attention as big projects.

Check fall protection equipment
Check scaffolding and ladders
Identify confined spaces hazards
Keep a record of credentials and certifications
Implement buddy systems and safety processes

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Managers (or the company) are required to provide site-appropriate PPE. This includes everything from high-visibility workwear to safety boots.

Before work starts, check that:

All workers are wearing the required PPE
PPE is in good condition
Spare PPE is available for visitors and in case of damage
PPE training is up-to-date

Safety boots

Work safety boots are more than essential PPE. They are a productivity tool and safety measure, enabling hardworking people to achieve excellent results safely.

Check that soles are non-slip and in good condition
Ensure workers have toe protection where required
Double-check specialist safety features, such as EH ratings for electricians and Nitrile outsoles for welders
Supply female personnel with properly fitted women’s work boots

Tool and equipment safety

Proper equipment use and maintenance are essential for preventing accidents. Depending on the environment, equipment hazards can range from small punctures and skin irritations to crushing and vehicle collisions.

Regularly inspect equipment for defects or damage
Ensure workers are properly trained and have the proper PPE
Test and tag all electrical equipment
Review operating procedures for tools and equipment
Keep updated Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
Provide training for workers using hazardous equipment
Maintain a certification register
Encourage workers to report defective equipment immediately

Stretching and breaks

Stretching before work and between tasks can prevent injuries and promote whole-body health. Workers should also take regular breaks to recharge, especially during hot days or in strenuous environments.