Overview

Safety Inspection Checklist for Libraries (Montana DLI & Safety Culture Act)

New Employee Safety Orientation

  • Provide verbal and written safety instruction at hire.
  • Cover:
    • Accident and hazard reporting procedures
    • Emergency procedures
    • PPE requirements (if any)
    • Fire safety basics
    • Chemical safety (if applicable)
  • Have employee sign orientation acknowledgement.
  • File documentation for at least 3 years.

Task / Job-Specific Training

  • Identify tasks requiring special training (maintenance, equipment use, chemical handling, etc.).
  • Document training with:
    • Date and location
    • Description of content
    • Trainer name
    • Trainee name and signature
  • Retain training records as long as the employee works there (recommended) or minimum of 3 years.

Refresher Training

  • Offer periodic (recommended annually) safety training.
  • Can be part of staff meetings or brief safety talks.
  • Document date, topic, length, participants.

Safety Awareness

  • Maintain visible safety information:
    • Bulletin board notifications
    • Safety newsletters or email reminders
    • Posters or signage
  • Ensure employees have regular access to safety information.

Annual Self‑Inspection

  • Conduct at least once per year.
  • Use a checklist or written notes to document:
    • Hazards found
    • Corrective actions taken
  • Save documentation for 3 years.

For Entities with 5 or More Employees

  • Maintain a written policy assigning safety responsibilities.
  • Have a written accident reporting and investigation procedure.
  • Participate in or maintain a safety committee that:
    • Meets at least every 4 months
    • Documents meeting notes for 3 years

Injury Reporting (Serious Incidents)

  • Report to DLI:
    • Fatality: within 8 hours
    • Hospitalization, amputation, loss of eye: within 24 hours
  • Use phone, website, or contact DLI directly.

Injury Recording (OSHA Logs)

  • Maintain OSHA 300 log throughout the calendar year.
  • Record any workplace injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid.
  • Post OSHA 300A summary Feb 1–Apr 30 annually.
  • Keep logs for 5 years (OSHA standard).

Common Facility Hazards to Check

  • Housekeeping: aisles clear, items safely stored.
  • Emergency exits: unobstructed, properly signed; non-exits labeled.
  • Electrical systems:
    • No exposed wiring
    • Intact faceplates
    • Accessible breaker panels
    • No frayed, taped, or damaged cords
  • Fire extinguishers:
    • Mounted properly
    • Annual inspection tag current
    • Monthly visual inspection logged