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Health and Safety - Building Safety

  • Updated

Each question below includes its SLCP/FSLM key and the related recommendation. In some cases, the same guidance applies to multiple IDs.

Table of Contents

Are elevators (lifts) in line with legal requirements?

hs-12--2

Recommendations

  • Conduct a Comprehensive Audit: Regularly assess all elevators to ensure they meet required standards and regulations.
  • Engage Certified Inspectors: Hire qualified professionals to perform routine inspections and address identified issues promptly.
  • Maintain Detailed Records: Keep thorough documentation of all inspections, maintenance activities, and certifications for compliance audits.
  • Implement Safety Training: Provide staff with training on proper elevator usage and emergency procedures.

 

Have there been and/or are there currently cases of concern about the physical integrity and stability of the facility?

hs-8--2

Recommendations

  • Engage Licensed Structural Engineers: Conduct thorough inspections to identify cracks, foundation issues, overloading risks, and material degradation.
  • Cease Operations in Unsafe Areas: Stop all work in affected areas until issues are resolved and certified as safe.
  • Verify Compliance Certificates: Ensure the facility has valid structural safety and fire compliance certificates per national and international regulations.
  • Reinforce or Retrofit Structures: Address any weaknesses through compliant repair or reinforcement methods following expert recommendations.
  • Ensure Emergency Readiness: Maintain functional fire exits, escape routes, and emergency procedures accessible to all workers.
  • Install Seismic Reinforcements: Strengthen structures in earthquake-prone areas to meet regional codes.
  • Schedule Routine Integrity Checks: Conduct regular assessments after construction, extreme weather, or modifications.
  • Establish Reporting Systems: Provide safe, anonymous channels for workers to report cracks, leaks, vibrations, or unusual conditions.
  • Train Workers on Warning Signs: Educate staff on recognizing early indicators of structural failure and proper evacuation responses.
  • Collaborate with Authorities: Work with government agencies, unions, and safety inspectors to exceed legal safety standards.
  • Relocate Workers if Unsafe: Move staff to secure facilities if the building is deemed unsafe until repairs are complete.

 

Are facility doors, exits and stairs in line with legal requirements?

hs-8--3

Recommendations 

  • Conduct Legal Compliance Review: Assess all doors, exits, and stairways against ILO, Better Work, and national safety regulations (e.g., QCVN 06:2021/BXD).
  • Verify Accessibility and Safety: Ensure all exits are unobstructed, wide enough, and designed for quick evacuation in emergencies.
  • Implement Fire Safety Protocols: Maintain clear pathways, signage, and lighting for all exit routes to prevent entrapment during fires.
  • Engage Certified Inspectors: Hire qualified professionals to verify compliance with occupational and building safety codes.
  • Maintain Records and Training: Document inspections and train workers on evacuation routes and emergency response procedures.
  • Address Violations Immediately: Remedy non-compliant structures to prevent injuries, legal penalties, or facility shutdowns.

 

Are building/construction, structural safety and fire permits and certificates in line with legal requirements?

hs-bui-1

Recommendations

  • Review Existing Documentation: Confirm that all current structures and additions have valid permits and certificates.
  • Identify Missing Approvals: Determine if any areas lack required building or fire safety documentation.
  • Consult Licensed Architects and Engineers: Engage experts to assess structural integrity and compliance.
  • Hire Certified Inspectors: Evaluate fire safety systems and ensure adherence to regulations.
  • Submit Applications for Missing Permits: Work with local authorities to obtain all required approvals.
  • Schedule Official Inspections: Arrange timely inspections to maintain valid certification status.
  • Establish Regular Reviews: Conduct periodic compliance checks for structural and fire safety standards.
  • Monitor Regulatory Updates: Stay informed about changes in building codes and renew permits accordingly.
  • Organize and Track Documentation: Maintain orderly, accessible records and monitor expiration dates for renewals.

 

Since equipment contains PCB, does the facility have all of the following safety measures in place: 

 hs-bui-13

Recommendations

  •  Identify and Label PCB Equipment: Conduct an inventory to locate all PCB-containing devices and apply clear hazard labels.
  • Inspect Equipment Regularly: Schedule periodic checks for leaks, damage, or deterioration.
  • Train Workers on PCB Hazards: Provide comprehensive training on safe handling, exposure risks, and emergency procedures.
  • Implement Containment Measures: Use spill containment systems and proper ventilation where PCBs are present.
  • Maintain Disposal Protocols: Partner with certified waste handlers for proper PCB removal and disposal.
  • Document Compliance: Keep inspection logs, training records, and waste manifests to demonstrate adherence to environmental laws.

 

No measures to prevent workers from slipping on floors at key areas

hs-bui-17x

Recommendations

  • Install Non-Slip Flooring: Apply anti-slip coatings or mats in kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
  • Ensure Proper Drainage: Maintain systems to prevent standing water and reduce slip risks.
  • Require Slip-Resistant Footwear: Mandate appropriate shoes for workers in moisture-prone zones.
  • Conduct Routine Maintenance: Inspect floors, plumbing, and drainage regularly to detect leaks or wear.
  • Train Workers on Spill Response: Educate staff on immediate cleanup procedures and hazard signage use.
  • Implement Reporting Systems: Allow workers to report hazardous flooring conditions without retaliation.
  • Post Safety Signage: Place visible reminders in wet or high-risk areas to encourage caution.
  • Promote a Safety Culture: Reinforce that hazard reporting and prevention are shared responsibilities across the facility.
  • Schedule Flooring Audits: Periodically review floor safety compliance and address deficiencies immediately.

 

No measures are in place to prevent standing water due to inadequate drainage

hs-bui-18x

Recommendations

To ensure compliance with ILO safety standards, national occupational health laws, and workplace injury prevention programs, employers should implement the following measures: 

  • Install non-slip flooring surfaces in key areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic zones. 
  • Use floor mats and anti-slip coatings where appropriate.
  •  Require workers to wear slip-resistant footwear in areas prone to moisture or spills.
  • Ensure proper drainage systems are in place to prevent standing water accumulation.
  • Conduct routine checks on plumbing and floor surfaces to detect leaks early. 
  • Train workers to clean spills immediately and use warning signs in wet areas. 
  • Install proper barriers, safety railings, or floor coverings over openings to prevent falls.
  • Conduct regular inspections to identify missing or damaged floor covers.
  • Establish a repair and maintenance schedule to fix flooring hazards immediately.
  • Conduct periodic flooring audits to ensure compliance with safety standards.
  • Assign facility maintenance teams to monitor and repair flooring issues as they arise.
  • Implement a reporting system where workers can notify management of hazardous flooring conditions.
  • Educate workers on flooring safety best practices, including recognizing hazards and responding to spills.
  • Post clear signage in high-risk areas to remind workers of safety protocols. Encourage a safety-first culture, where workers feel empowered to report hazards without fear of retaliation. 

By taking these steps, the facility can align with ILO and Better Work Program guidelines, reduce workplace injury risks, and ensure a safe and legally compliant work environment. Failure to address flooring safety could lead to serious injuries, legal actions, and increased operational risks.

 

No measures are in place to prevent floor openings and/or holes missing covers/suitable barriers in areas that workers can access

hs-bui-19x

Recommendations

To ensure compliance with ILO safety standards, national occupational health laws, and workplace injury prevention programs, employers should implement the following measures: 

  • Install non-slip flooring surfaces in key areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic zones. 
  • Use floor mats and anti-slip coatings where appropriate.
  •  Require workers to wear slip-resistant footwear in areas prone to moisture or spills.
  • Ensure proper drainage systems are in place to prevent standing water accumulation.
  • Conduct routine checks on plumbing and floor surfaces to detect leaks early. 
  • Train workers to clean spills immediately and use warning signs in wet areas. 
  • Install proper barriers, safety railings, or floor coverings over openings to prevent falls.
  • Conduct regular inspections to identify missing or damaged floor covers.
  • Establish a repair and maintenance schedule to fix flooring hazards immediately.
  • Conduct periodic flooring audits to ensure compliance with safety standards.
  • Assign facility maintenance teams to monitor and repair flooring issues as they arise.
  • Implement a reporting system where workers can notify management of hazardous flooring conditions.
  • Educate workers on flooring safety best practices, including recognizing hazards and responding to spills.
  • Post clear signage in high-risk areas to remind workers of safety protocols. Encourage a safety-first culture, where workers feel empowered to report hazards without fear of retaliation. 

By taking these steps, the facility can align with ILO and Better Work Program guidelines, reduce workplace injury risks, and ensure a safe and legally compliant work environment. Failure to address flooring safety could lead to serious injuries, legal actions, and increased operational risks.

 

None of the above - the facility is meeting all measures listed above regarding flooring safety

hs-bui-20x

Recommendations

To ensure compliance with ILO safety standards, national occupational health laws, and workplace injury prevention programs, employers should implement the following measures: 

  • Install non-slip flooring surfaces in key areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic zones. 
  • Use floor mats and anti-slip coatings where appropriate.
  •  Require workers to wear slip-resistant footwear in areas prone to moisture or spills.
  • Ensure proper drainage systems are in place to prevent standing water accumulation.
  • Conduct routine checks on plumbing and floor surfaces to detect leaks early. 
  • Train workers to clean spills immediately and use warning signs in wet areas. 
  • Install proper barriers, safety railings, or floor coverings over openings to prevent falls.
  • Conduct regular inspections to identify missing or damaged floor covers.
  • Establish a repair and maintenance schedule to fix flooring hazards immediately.
  • Conduct periodic flooring audits to ensure compliance with safety standards.
  • Assign facility maintenance teams to monitor and repair flooring issues as they arise.
  • Implement a reporting system where workers can notify management of hazardous flooring conditions.
  • Educate workers on flooring safety best practices, including recognizing hazards and responding to spills.
  • Post clear signage in high-risk areas to remind workers of safety protocols. Encourage a safety-first culture, where workers feel empowered to report hazards without fear of retaliation. 

By taking these steps, the facility can align with ILO and Better Work Program guidelines, reduce workplace injury risks, and ensure a safe and legally compliant work environment. Failure to address flooring safety could lead to serious injuries, legal actions, and increased operational risks.

 

Workers are not using fall protection when needed

Hs-bui-30x

Fall protection equipment is not in good condition

Hs-bui-31x

Fall protection equipment maintenance logs are not kept

hs-bui-32x

No storage of fall protection equipment in a designated location

Hs-bui-33x

Workers not trained on proper use of fall protection equipment

Hs-bui-34x

Workers training logs on proper use of fall protection equipment not kept

Hs-bui-35x

No walls, fences or other barriers along high working areas

Hs-bui-36x

Workers do not wear fall protection at all times when working in high working areas

Hs-bui-37x

None of the above - the facility is meeting all measures listed above regarding fall protection

hs-bui-38x

To ensure compliance with ILO safety standards, national labor laws, and workplace injury prevention programs, employers should implement the following measures: Ensure Workers Use Fall Protection Equipment When Needed:

  • Require harnesses, lanyards, anchor points, lifelines, and self-retracting lifelines in all elevated work areas.
  • Conduct spot-checks and enforcement to ensure compliance with fall protection policies. Inspect and Maintain Fall Protection Equipment Regularly: *Implement scheduled inspections to check for wear, damage, or malfunctioning components (e.g., buckles, straps, D-rings). 
  • Follow manufacturer maintenance guidelines and immediately replace defective equipment. Maintain Logs for Equipment Inspections and Maintenance: 
  • Keep detailed records of all fall protection equipment inspections and servicing. 
  • Ensure maintenance logs are available for review by labor inspectors and safety personnel.
  • Designate Proper Storage for Fall Protection Equipment: 
  • Establish dedicated, well-organized storage areas to prevent equipment damage and loss. 
  • Ensure workers know where to access fall protection gear when needed. Provide Training on Proper Use of Fall Protection Equipment: 
  • Train workers on how to properly wear, adjust, and use harnesses and other fall protection gear. 
  • Educate workers on fall hazards, safe work practices, and emergency response protocols. 
  • Maintain Training Logs for Worker Certification:
    • Keep detailed records of all worker training sessions, including attendance logs, test results, and certification details. 
  • Conduct refresher training periodically to reinforce safety knowledge. 
  • Install Structural Safety Barriers at High Working Areas:
    • Equip elevated work areas, such as loading docks, platforms, scaffolding, and roofs, with sturdy guardrails, fences, or barriers.
    •  Ensure barriers meet national safety regulations and industry best practices.
  • Ensure Workers Wear Fall Protection at All Times in High-Risk Areas:
    • Enforce a mandatory fall protection policy for workers operating at heights.
    • Conduct random compliance audits to ensure adherence to safety protocols.
  • Conduct Regular Workplace Inspections and Audits:
    • Schedule periodic fall hazard assessments to identify and mitigate risks. 
    • Ensure all high-risk work areas comply with national and international safety standards. 

By following these measures, the facility can align with ILO and Better Work Program safety guidelines, reduce workplace injury risks, and ensure compliance with legal fall protection requirements. Failure to address these concerns could lead to serious injuries, legal actions, and operational disruptions

 

No regular inspection of elevators (lifts)

Hs-bui-40x

No clear display of load capacity (i.e. number of people/kg/lbs.) in all elevators

hs-bui-41x

Recommendations

  • Conduct Regular Inspections and Maintenance: 
    • Perform routine elevator inspections at least once every six months or as per legal requirements.
    • Hire certified professionals to conduct thorough mechanical and safety checks.
    • Maintain detailed inspection logs to prove compliance with legal safety requirements.

Implementing these measures, the facility can align with ILO and Better Work Program safety guidelines, reduce mechanical and injury risks, and ensure compliance with legal elevator safety requirements.

  • Failure to address elevator safety concerns could result in serious accidents, legal repercussions, and operational risks.
  • Ensure Load Capacity is Clearly Displayed:
    • Post visible weight limits and passenger capacity signs inside every elevator.
    • Ensure that workers understand the importance of load restrictions to prevent overloading incidents. 

Implementing these measures, the facility can align with ILO and Better Work Program safety guidelines, reduce mechanical and injury risks, and ensure compliance with legal elevator safety requirements. Failure to address elevator safety concerns could result in serious accidents, legal repercussions, and operational risks.

 

No warning sign in all elevators (e.g., "Do not use elevator in cases of emergency") against their use in cases of emergency

hs-bui-42x

Recommendations

  • Install Emergency Warning Signs in All Elevators: 
    • Display “Do Not Use Elevators in Case of Emergency” signs in visible locations inside and outside the elevator.
    • Ensure emergency instructions are provided in multiple languages if the workforce consists of non-native speakers.

 Implementing these measures, the facility can align with ILO and Better Work Program safety guidelines, reduce mechanical and injury risks, and ensure compliance with legal elevator safety requirements. Failure to address elevator safety concerns could result in serious accidents, legal repercussions, and operational risks.

 

No safety devices on elevator doors to prevent them from opening unless the elevator is present

hs-bui-43x

Recommendations

  • Equip Elevators with Safety Devices: 
    • Install automatic door sensors to prevent elevator doors from closing on passengers.
    • Ensure elevator doors cannot open unless the elevator is at the correct floor level to prevent falls. 
    • Implementing these measures, the facility can align with ILO and Better Work Program safety guidelines, reduce mechanical and injury risks, and ensure compliance with legal elevator safety requirements. 
    • Failure to address elevator safety concerns could result in serious accidents, legal repercussions, and operational risks.

 

Elevators not wired to be inoperable when elevator doors are open

hs-bui-44x

Recommendations

  • Prevent Elevators from Operating When Doors are Open: 
    • Ensure elevators are electrically wired to remain inoperable when doors are open.
    • Regularly test the failsafe mechanisms to verify proper function.

 Implementing these measures, the facility can align with ILO and Better Work Program safety guidelines, reduce mechanical and injury risks, and ensure compliance with legal elevator safety requirements. Failure to address elevator safety concerns could result in serious accidents, legal repercussions, and operational risks.

 

None of the above - the facility is meeting all measures listed above regarding elevator safety

hs-bui-45x

Recommendations

  • Prevent Elevators from Operating When Doors are Open: 
    • Ensure elevators are electrically wired to remain inoperable when doors are open.
    • Regularly test the failsafe mechanisms to verify proper function.

 Implementing these measures, the facility can align with ILO and Better Work Program safety guidelines, reduce mechanical and injury risks, and ensure compliance with legal elevator safety requirements. Failure to address elevator safety concerns could result in serious accidents, legal repercussions, and operational risks.

 

No signs for each confined space indicating they are a confined space

hs-bui-47x

Recommendations

  • Install Clear and Visible Confined Space Signage: 
    • Place warning signs on all confined spaces indicating that entry is restricted.
    • Use color-coded signage and symbols for multilingual workplaces to ensure all workers understand the risks. 
    • Signs should include hazard warnings (e.g., "DANGER: Confined Space – Authorized Personnel Only").
    • Conduct routine inspections to ensure that signage, barriers, and access controls are functioning properly. 
    • Maintain detailed logs of confined space assessments, access permits, and safety compliance reports.

 

No appropriate protections to ensure no accidental entry for each confined space

hs-bui-48x

Recommendations

  • Implement Barriers and Entry Control Measures: 
    • Use physical barriers, locked doors, and restricted access gates to prevent accidental entry into confined spaces. 
    • Ensure all entry points are secure and cannot be accessed without proper authorization.
    • Conduct routine inspections to ensure that signage, barriers, and access controls are functioning properly. 
    • Maintain detailed logs of confined space assessments, access permits, and safety compliance reports.

 

No "authorized entry-only access" for each confined space

hs-bui-49x

Recommendations

  • Restrict Entry to Authorized Personnel Only: 
    • Establish a permit-to-work system that requires management approval before anyone enters a confined space.
    • Maintain records of authorized workers, their training certifications, and permits issued for confined space entry.
    • Conduct routine inspections to ensure that signage, barriers, and access controls are functioning properly. 
    • Maintain detailed logs of confined space assessments, access permits, and safety compliance reports.

 

No assurance that workers/contractors who enter confined spaces do so only when appropriate measures have been taken to protect them from any physical hazards present

hs-bui-50x

Recommendations

  • Develop and enforce a permit-to-work system where CSE is only allowed after all safety protocols are in place.
  • Require approval from a trained safety officer before confined space work begins.
  • Establish confined space emergency response procedures and conduct mock rescue drills.
  • Ensure workers know how to activate emergency alarms and evacuate confined spaces safely.
  • Assign a confined space safety officer to oversee compliance and worker safety during CSE.
  • Maintain detailed records of all CSE activities, including permits, training records, air quality tests, and rescue plans.

 

No assurance that workers/contractors who enter confined spaces do so when the atmosphere is safe and the air has been tested when needed

hs-bui-51x

Recommendations

  • Develop and enforce a permit-to-work system where CSE is only allowed after all safety protocols are in place.
  • Require approval from a trained safety officer before confined space work begins.
  • Establish confined space emergency response procedures and conduct mock rescue drills.
  • Ensure workers know how to activate emergency alarms and evacuate confined spaces safely.
  • Assign a confined space safety officer to oversee compliance and worker safety during CSE.
  • Maintain detailed records of all CSE activities, including permits, training records, air quality tests, and rescue plans.

 

Not all workers/contractors who enter the confined spaces know and understand how to do so safely

hs-bui-52x

Recommendations

  • Provide comprehensive confined space safety training for all workers involved in CSE.
  • Conduct regular refresher courses to ensure workers understand new safety procedures and regulations.
  • Establish confined space emergency response procedures and conduct mock rescue drills.
  • Ensure workers know how to activate emergency alarms and evacuate confined spaces safely.
  • Assign a confined space safety officer to oversee compliance and worker safety during CSE.
  • Maintain detailed records of all CSE activities, including permits, training records, air quality tests, and rescue plans.

 

No rescue equipment ready for use (when a confined space entry occurs)

hs-bui-53x

Recommendations

  • Equip confined space areas with emergency retrieval systems (e.g., tripods, harnesses, and winches). 
  • Maintain ventilation systems to improve air quality and reduce toxic exposure risks.
  • If using a third-party rescue team, verify that trained personnel are available during all CSE activities.
  • Establish confined space emergency response procedures and conduct mock rescue drills.
  • Ensure workers know how to activate emergency alarms and evacuate confined spaces safely.
  • Assign a confined space safety officer to oversee compliance and worker safety during CSE.
  • Maintain detailed records of all CSE activities, including permits, training records, air quality tests, and rescue plans.

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