12. Laboratory Inspections

Regular internal inspections catch problems before an external inspector — or an incident — does.

• Weekly (informal): Visual check by the teacher for obvious issues — leaks, damaged containers, blocked exits, missing eyewash access.

• Semesterly (formal): Department chair or safety officer walkthrough using a written checklist.

• Annually (comprehensive): Full inventory reconciliation combined with a facilities and fire-code review, ideally involving district-level safety staff.

Checklist: Laboratory Inspection

• Inventory matches physical contents

• Incompatible chemicals properly segregated

• Safety equipment (eyewash, shower, fire extinguisher, fume hood) functional and unobstructed

• Labels legible and complete

• Chemical Hygiene Plan and training records current

• SDS accessible in both digital and backup form

• No unlabeled or unidentified containers present

• Aisles and exits clear

• Cabinet and shelving hardware secure

Internal link opportunity: Preparing for a School Science Lab Safety Inspection.

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