Drywall Finishing & Stilts Safety Inspection Checklist

Has a thorough floor sweep been completed to remove all debris, tools, and materials from the work area? (Documented floor sweep log available?)

Are all open wall cavities and floor holes properly covered or barricaded to prevent accidental falls? (Covers secured and clearly marked?)

Is there adequate lighting (minimum 5 foot-candles) throughout the work area to ensure clear visibility and prevent tripping hazards? (Measure light levels with a meter.)

Are all pathways and access routes free from obstructions, ensuring safe movement while on stilts? (Minimum 3 feet wide?)

Are environmental controls in place to manage dust and debris, such as ventilation or dust collection systems? (Verify system functionality.)

Are drywall sheets and other materials properly staged to minimize clutter and potential tripping hazards? (Stacked securely and away from pathways?)

Have all electrical cords and equipment been inspected for damage and proper grounding? (No frayed wires or missing ground prongs?)

Is the general housekeeping in the area acceptable? (Waste containers available and used?)

Are fire extinguishers readily accessible and fully charged? (Inspected within the last year?)

Are emergency exits clearly marked and unobstructed? (Ensure clear egress routes.)

Are all stilt straps and buckles in good condition, showing no signs of wear, fraying, or damage? (Replace damaged straps immediately.)

Do the stilt springs function smoothly and provide adequate support? (Check for binding or stiffness.)

Are the footplates securely attached to the stilts and provide a stable platform? (Check for loose screws or bolts.)

Does the height adjustment mechanism function properly and lock securely at the desired height? (Test locking mechanism.)

Is the stilt foot grip in good condition and providing adequate traction? (Clean or replace worn grips.)

Is the user's weight within the stilt's rated weight capacity? (Verify stilt rating and user weight.)

Perform a stability test on the stilts before use. (Walk a short distance and check for wobbling or instability.)

Is there a maintenance log for the stilts, documenting inspections and repairs? (Review log for recent maintenance.)

Are all locking pins or mechanisms fully engaged and secured before use? (Double-check all locking points.)

Are the stilt feet properly aligned and adjusted to the user's foot size? (Ensure a snug and comfortable fit.)

Is a hard hat worn at all times in the work area? (ANSI Z89.1 compliant?)

Is appropriate eye protection (safety glasses or goggles) worn to protect against dust and debris? (ANSI Z87.1 compliant?)

Is a properly fitted respirator worn during sanding or other dust-generating activities? (NIOSH approved?)

Are appropriate work boots worn, providing ankle support and slip resistance? (No open-toed shoes or sneakers.)

Are gloves worn to protect hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure? (Appropriate for the task?)

Is high-visibility clothing worn, especially in areas with mobile equipment or limited visibility? (ANSI 107 compliant?)

Is hearing protection available and used in areas with high noise levels? (Exceeding 85 dBA?)

Inspect all PPE for damage or defects before each use. (Replace damaged PPE immediately.)

Ensure all PPE fits properly and is comfortable for the user. (Proper sizing and adjustment.)

Has each worker received training on the proper use, care, and maintenance of their PPE? (Documented training records?)

Are guardrail systems in place around elevated work areas where stilts are used? (42 inches +/- 3 inches high?)

If guardrails are not feasible, are personal fall arrest systems (PFAS) used, including a full-body harness, lanyard, and anchorage point? (Inspected before use?)

Are anchorage points for PFAS capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds per employee attached? (Engineered and certified?)

Is the lanyard length appropriate to prevent contact with lower levels in case of a fall? (Calculate fall distance.)

Is there sufficient fall clearance below the work area to prevent striking an object or lower level in the event of a fall? (Calculate required clearance.)

Is there a rescue plan in place in case of a fall while using stilts? (Trained personnel and equipment available?)

Are safety net systems used where other fall protection measures are not feasible? (Installed and maintained properly?)

Are warning lines used to delineate areas where fall protection is required? (Placed at least 6 feet from the edge?)

Are controlled access zones established to limit access to areas where fall hazards exist? (Clearly marked and enforced?)

Have all workers received training on fall protection requirements and the proper use of fall protection equipment? (Documented training records?)

Inspect the full body harness before each use for any signs of damage, wear, or defects. (Remove from service if damaged.)

Are Safety Data Sheets (SDS) readily available for all chemicals and materials used on site? (Accessible to all employees?)

Is there a written hazard communication program in place, outlining procedures for handling hazardous materials? (Review program annually?)

Is a first-aid kit readily available and adequately stocked? (Trained personnel on site?)

Is emergency contact information posted in a conspicuous location? (Including phone numbers for emergency services and site supervisors?)

Are regular toolbox talks conducted to address specific safety hazards and reinforce safe work practices? (Documented attendance and topics?)

Has a competent person been designated to inspect the job site and identify potential hazards? (Documented qualifications and responsibilities?)

Are training records available for all employees who use drywall stilts, demonstrating competency in their safe operation? (Hands-on training and evaluation?)

Is there a clear procedure for reporting incidents and near misses? (Encourage reporting without fear of reprisal.)

Is there a site-specific safety plan that addresses the unique hazards of the project? (Reviewed and updated regularly?)

Does the Lead Carpenter understand their responsibilities for ensuring site safety and compliance with regulations? (Documented understanding?)