Commercial Greenhouse & Nursery Safety Inspection Checklist

Are WPS training records up-to-date for all employees handling or exposed to pesticides? (Verify training within the last 12 months)

Are workers notified of pesticide applications via postings, oral warnings, or both, as required by WPS?

Is the Restricted Entry Interval (REI) clearly posted at the treated area entrance, and are workers prohibited from entering during the REI?

Are adequate decontamination sites (water, soap, towels) readily accessible to workers handling pesticides, within 1/4 mile?

Is emergency information (name, address, and phone number of nearest medical facility) prominently displayed at the worksite?

Are pesticides stored in a secure, well-ventilated area, away from food, feed, and water sources, and in accordance with label instructions?

Are pesticide mixing and loading procedures conducted in a manner that minimizes worker exposure (e.g., using closed systems or engineering controls)?

Is appropriate PPE (gloves, respirators, eye protection, etc.) readily available, properly fitted, and in good condition for workers handling pesticides?

Is PPE cleaned and maintained according to manufacturer's instructions and WPS requirements?

Are empty pesticide containers properly rinsed (triple-rinsed or equivalent) and disposed of according to label instructions and local regulations?

Is pesticide application equipment (sprayers, etc.) properly calibrated and maintained to prevent leaks and ensure accurate application rates?

Have all employees received training on heat stress recognition, prevention, and first aid?

Is there an acclimatization program in place for new workers or those returning after an absence, gradually increasing workload and exposure to heat?

Is cool, potable water readily available to all employees, and are they encouraged to drink frequently (at least 1 cup every 15-20 minutes)?

Is adequate shade (natural or artificial) available for employees to take breaks during periods of high heat?

Are work/rest schedules adjusted based on the heat index, with more frequent and longer breaks during hotter periods?

Is a buddy system in place to monitor workers for signs and symptoms of heat stress?

Is the heat index (temperature and humidity) regularly monitored, and are appropriate precautions taken based on the level of risk?

Are supervisors and employees trained in recognizing and providing first aid for heat stress, including cooling measures and when to call for medical assistance?

Are daily heat logs maintained, documenting temperature, humidity, work/rest schedules, and any heat-related incidents?

Are greenhouse ventilation systems (fans, vents) functioning properly to reduce heat buildup?

Are employees encouraged to wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to minimize heat absorption?

Are all electrical outlets within 6 feet of water sources (irrigation systems, sinks, etc.) protected by Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)?

Are extension cords free from damage (cuts, frays, exposed wires) and used appropriately (not overloaded or used as permanent wiring)?

Are all electrical tools and equipment properly grounded, or double-insulated?

Is access to electrical panels clear and unobstructed, with at least 3 feet of clearance in front?

Are electrical panels properly labeled to indicate the circuits they control?

Is electrical equipment used in wet locations (e.g., irrigation pumps) rated for wet locations (NEMA 4 or equivalent)?

Is a Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) program in place and followed for servicing or maintaining electrical equipment?

Are electrical repairs and installations performed only by qualified personnel?

Are workers aware of the location of overhead power lines and maintaining a safe distance (at least 10 feet) when working with equipment or tools?

Are regular electrical inspections conducted by a qualified electrician to identify and correct potential hazards?

Is all wiring properly installed in conduit or raceways to protect against physical damage?

Are incompatible chemicals (e.g., acids and bases) stored separately to prevent dangerous reactions?

Are all chemical containers clearly labeled with the chemical name, hazards, and appropriate warnings?

Are Safety Data Sheets (SDS) readily accessible to all employees for all chemicals used in the operation?

Is a spill control plan in place, and are spill kits readily available in areas where chemicals are handled or stored?

Are bulk chemical storage tanks equipped with secondary containment to prevent spills from reaching the environment?

Are chemicals mixed according to label instructions, using appropriate PPE and ventilation?

Is adequate ventilation provided in areas where chemicals are mixed or handled to prevent the buildup of hazardous vapors?

Are eyewash stations and safety showers readily accessible in areas where chemicals are handled, and are they tested regularly?

Are chemical wastes disposed of properly, in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations?

Is the pH of nutrient solutions regularly monitored and adjusted to ensure optimal plant health and prevent chemical imbalances?

Are waste nutrient solutions disposed of properly to prevent environmental contamination?

Are all forklift operators certified and trained in accordance with OSHA requirements?

Are forklifts inspected daily before use, and are inspection records maintained?

Is regular maintenance performed on forklifts, and are maintenance records kept?

Are all vehicles (trucks, tractors, ATVs) inspected regularly for safety defects (brakes, lights, tires)?

Are seatbelts required and used by all vehicle operators and passengers?

Are speed limits established and enforced within the greenhouse and nursery areas?

Are pedestrian walkways clearly marked and separated from vehicle traffic areas?

Are all vehicles equipped with functioning backup alarms?

Are all vehicle operators trained on safe operating procedures and site-specific hazards?

Are load limits for vehicles and forklifts clearly posted and adhered to?

Is traffic flow managed effectively to prevent collisions, especially in high-traffic areas?