C3.2.1 continued (2)
Use of Checklists
Most organisations use some form of checklist for their environmental inspections. They may have a simple heading such as “Waste” with a gap for comments, or they may be more detailed, listing several specific questions for each topics, such as “Is there any litter?”, “Are all bins labelled?”, “Has waste been put in the correct bin?” etc.
There are arguments for and against both methods:
Broad Headings:
- These require on the user having sufficient knowledge to conduct a thorough inspection with minimal prompting.
- They are more flexible and allow the user to choose what the bulk of the inspection covers.
- There is less consistency between inspections, as different users may look at very different items.
Specific Questions:
- The user need not remember all of the items that they should be checking and therefore the inspection form may be easier to follow.
- They will lack flexibility unless there is sufficient space to note additional comments.
- There is more consistency between inspections as all users should have looked at the same items.
Whatever the method used the checklist must allow sufficient space to record any actions required. All checklists or inspection forms provide a record of inspection. This may be later reviewed during an environmental audit.