Staffing Agency – Safety Checklist

When sending workers to a client site, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Here are the steps you should take:

1. Research the Host Employer’s Safety Record:
   • Examine the host employer’s safety history, including:
     • Workers’ compensation experience modification rate (EMR) and/or days away from work, restriction, or job transfer (DART) rate.
     • OSHA inspection reports and violations.
     • OSHA 300 Logs.
     • Recent incidents.
   • Review the host employer’s written safety programs, plans, and policies, such as:
     • Injury and illness prevention program (if available).
     • Emergency action and fire prevention plans.
     • Safety and health policies in the employee handbook.
     • Disciplinary policies for safety rule violations.
     • Hazard communication plan (if hazardous chemicals are involved).
2. Ask the Client About:
   • The specific jobs your employees will perform.
   • Hazards workers will be exposed to.
   • Protective measures are in place.
   • Required skills.
   • Employee training is needed beforehand or provided on-site.
3. Visit the Client’s Site and Perform a Safety Assessment:
   • Evaluate the following areas:
     • Housekeeping: Is the facility clean, and are work areas free of slip and fall hazards?
     • Exit routes: Are they accessible and clearly marked?
     • Machinery: Check if tools and machinery are in safe working condition and properly guarded.
     • PPE: Ensure consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE) if required.
     • Ergonomics: Look for ergonomic hazards (e.g., heavy lifting, repetitive motion) and assess workstation design.
     • Emergency preparedness: Verify the presence of fire extinguishers and first aid kits.
4. Match Employee Experience and Qualifications:
   • Consider prior training, certifications, and relevant industry experience when selecting contract workers for the site.
5. Provide General Safety Training:
   • Cover topics applicable to most workplaces:
     • Workers’ rights and responsibilities under the OSH Act.
     • Basics of a safe and healthy workplace.
     • Important safety standards (e.g., hazard communication).
     • Any other relevant topics agreed upon in the contract.
6. During the Work Assignment:
   • Conduct follow-up visits to verify the host employer’s safety efforts:
     • Ensure temporary workers receive the same protection as internal employees.
     • Confirm training comprehension in a language they understand.
     • Check if temporary workers know workplace hazards and emergency procedures.
     • Assess corrective actions taken by the host employer.
     • Monitor consistent PPE use.
     • Address any new hazards introduced.
7. Engage with Employees on Site:
   • Regularly communicate with workers:
     • Assess their training satisfaction.
     • Gauge their sense of safety.
     • Confirm their knowledge of hazard response procedures.
8. Maintain Communication with the Host Employer:
   • Discuss employee performance, safety adherence, and other relevant matters.

Remember, safety is paramount, and proactive measures benefit everyone involved¹²