Department Heads and Safety Coordinators are well aware that at the beginning of each quarter, they need to complete their “Environment of Care (EOC) Self-Tour” or the “University Safety Checklist” report before the required deadline. There has been an increase of questions on what some of the questions on the form mean, and what to do with the form once it has been completed. Let’s dive into the form a bit and review some of the criteria.
This form is required to be completed on the first month of each quarter (January/April/July/October) before the required deadline, which is indicated in the reminder email that is sent out by Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S). If the deadline has past, it is still important to complete it and document any observed deficiencies. Once the form has been completed, the department should ensure that all observations are presented to the appropriate department (i.e., Environmental Services, Facilities Management, Clinical Engineering, department staff). These departments are responsible for repairs and/or follow-up (depending on the finding). Once the deficiency is forwarded to the appropriate department, it is important that the department ensures that the correction(s) has been made.
Departments are not required and should not send their forms to EH&S. The responsibility of follow-up is on the department staff only. Instead, use the department of EH&S as a resource if you should have any questions or would like additional help in coordinating your corrective action.
Article continues on Environmental Health & Safety's blog, Speaking of Safety. Visit Speaking of Safety to access forms for the Environment of Care Self-Tour and University Safety Checklist.