Before starting a new inspection, what should you review?

Before starting a new inspection, reviewing the previous inspection checklist is vital as it helps ensure continuity and accountability in the inspection process. By looking at the previous checklist, you can identify areas that may have been flagged for follow-up, see what issues were previously identified, and verify whether any specific recommendations were implemented. This practice enhances the effectiveness of the current inspection by allowing the inspector to build on prior knowledge, which is crucial for maintaining safety standards and ensuring that all necessary checks are completed.

While the latest organizational policies, weather conditions, and personal thoughts might be relevant in different contexts, they do not directly contribute to the thoroughness and effectiveness of the inspection process in the same way as a previous inspection checklist does. The checklist serves as a practical reference point that helps maintain focus on essential safety and compliance issues that have already been established.