We're sorry, but OSHAcademy doesn't work properly without JavaScript enabled. Please turn on JavaScript or install a browser that supports Javascript.

900 Oil and Gas Safety Management
Skip to main content

Observations

Safety and health work observations should be performed periodically by supervisors or designated observers. Observations may be conducted randomly in an informal manner, or they may be planned when a formal observations program, such as a Behavior Based Safety Program, is part of the SMS.

Supervisor overseeing outside worker
Informal observations can reveal a wealth of valuable information.

No matter what the strategy being used, safety and health work observations ensure:

  • an employee has the knowledge to perform the work as trained
  • the employee is actually performing their work task safely

Specific observations or audits are especially critical for lockout/tagout, confined space, fall protection and other programs where the risk of exposure to hazards is high. Results should be documented and follow-up training should be provided as needed. This process helps assure safety and health training is effective.

To learn more about safety education and training, be sure to complete OSHAcademy Courses 703, 721, and 723.

Click this link to see a sample training certification.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

6-12. Specific observations are especially critical for which of the following procedures?