Proactive monitoring - how to measure performance

These information sources can be used independently or in combination. Direct observation includes inspection activities and the monitoring of the work environment (e.g. temperature, dust levels, solvent levels, noise levels) and people s behaviour. Each risk control system should have a built-in monitoring element that will define the frequency of monitoring these can be combined to form a common inspection system. 

This may be achieved by developing a checklist or inspection form that covers the key issues to be monitored in a particular department or area of the organization within a particular period. It might be useful to structure this checklist using the four Ps (note that the examples are not a definitive list)  

It is essential that people carrying out an inspection do not in any way put themselves or anyone else at risk. Particular care must be taken with regard to safe access. In carrying out these safety inspections, the safety of people s actions should be considered, in addition to the safety of the conditions they are working in - a ladder might be in perfect condition but it has to be used properly too. 

In addition, to become a good observer, a person must  

Some of the items arising from safety inspections will have been dealt with immediately, other items will require action by specified people. Where there is some doubt about the problem, and what exactly is required, advice 

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