H&S

All exit signs and emergency lights unobstructed and operate properly (test emergency lights)? Switch on in the emergency mode each luminaire and each internally illuminated exit sign from its battery, by simulation of a failure of the supply to the normal lighting for a period sufficient to ensure that each lamp is illuminated. During this period, all luminaires and signs should be checked to ensure that they are present, clean and functioning correctly. At the end of this test period, the supply to the normal lighting should be restored and any indicator lamp or device checked to ensure that it is showing that the normal supply has been restored.

All fire extinguishers properly wall mounted, easily accessible, have locking pin, and non-expired inspection tag (this must be done annually) Each extinguisher is correctly located in its designated place. Each extinguisher is unobstructed and visible. The operating instructions of each extinguisher are clean and legible and face outwards. Each extinguisher has not been operated and is not obviously damaged or has any missing parts. The reading of any pressure gauge is within the green zone. Any indicator fitted to an extinguisher is within operational and safety limits. The tamper indicators of each extinguisher are not broken or missing.

Have fire break glass points been tested and are they working? The fire alarm should be tested weekly with results recorded in the fire log book. Test results should be checked and any actions closed out.

Are the emergency exit pathways clear including doors? carry out a visual inspection of all fire exit routes to ensure routes are clear, and fire doors/external exits are clear, with doors that open safely and fully.

Adequate lighting levels? A visual check of all store areas to ensure all areas are adequately lit, and there are no areas where lack of lighting could offer a risk.

Is the stock at least (46 cm) 18 inches below sprinkler heads? A visual check that stock is not blocking the sprinkler heads and there must be at least (46 cm) 18 inches space between stock and the sprinklers. Where this gap is less than (46 cm) 18 inches the stock should be moved to another safe location.

Mechanical and electrical equipment areas are not used for storage (36 inches or 92 cm clearance)? A visual check that nothing is being stored in areas of mechanical and electrical equipment, and there is a least 36 inches (or 92 cm clearance). Iif items are stored within these areas they must be relocated to a safe area.

Are all fixtures and fittings physically inspected/tested and are secure? A physical inspection/testing and checks that fixtures and fittings are secure. Where they are not secure, access they must be made safe or the area around them cordoned off until they can be made safe.

Has the substances cupboard or container got warning stickers alerting staff to the contents? Storage areas should show signage that substances are being stored there, and all containers must also state what substances are in them.

Are the first aid kits stored where they should be and adequately visible to staff? Check first aid kits are stored as guided and contain the correct items. Where a first aid kit has been used, any items used should be restocked.

Are all floors and aisles free of any slip, trip and fall hazards? (check for uneven levels, steps, raised edges, etc) Staff should always be aware of any risks that may cause a slip, trip or fall and areas kept safe. If you see an area of risk don’t walk by, make it safe at once.

Is the elevator equipment room free of storage and contains a fire extinguisher? Elevator rooms should only be accessed by authorised personnel. These areas are not store rooms and nothing should be stored in this area. Fire extinguishers should checked and maintenance visits are within date.

Is the ceiling free of damage/hazards? A visual inspection of ceilings should be carried out to identify and repair any areas of risk.

Does the elevator emergency phone work properly? The elevator emergency phone should be checked as part of the regular maintenance visits. If anyone identifies any issue with the phone, the maintenance company should be informed and repairs arranged.

Are all shelving units in proper working order (including pip shelving brakes)? All shelving should be checked to ensure they are safe and secure with no sharp edges.

Electrical cords are in good condition, do not present a trip hazard and are not used as permanent power? The use of power cords must be safely controlled and when in use must not cross any walkways. Before each use, an inspection of the cable should be completed. If any cracks or breaks in the cable are present the cable must not be used.

Are all stairs/stairwell in good condition and free of slip, trip and fall hazards? Stairs should be checked and if any hazards are identified, the stairs should be repaired, or the area blocked off until a repair can be carried out.

Does the team know the procedure for elevator entrapment (who to call)? Ensure staff are aware of the procedure for elevator entrapment. Training should be recorded and kept in the employee files.

Are all stationary stock shelving units anchored to the wall/floor? Stationary stock shelving units should be physically checked to ensure they are securely anchored to the wall/floor