Each year, we return from the summer holidays filled with plans to make changes and improvements to our workplaces.

Often, these plans are well intentioned and based on needs identified in the workplace at a previous time. Also, often, these plans are not realised because a step was missed in planning the execution of the changes and improvements.

Too many plans can result in a divided focus. To achieve lasting improvements and changes, it is wise to have fewer plans that can be broken down into smaller achievable parts.

Improving workplace housekeeping is a great starting place. Over 50 % of workplace hazards can be controlled if the workplace is kept clean, tidy and orderly.

Use our SafetyLOGIC checklist or develop a workplace housekeeping checklist of your own that can be used to assess each department in your workplace.

Ensure that the checklist is completed regularly and that the manager of the department is involved in the process.

The same person does not have to complete the checklist every time.

Plan to improve or eliminate one trouble spot for each department each month.

Keep the checklists that have been completed to assess your progress.

Clean, tidy and orderly workplaces do not have slip, trip and fall hazards which can be the underlying cause of many workplace incidents.