What is one major step in conducting a laboratory safety inspection?

Checking that all safety equipment is functional and accessible is a crucial step in conducting a laboratory safety inspection. This ensures that all personnel can immediately access the necessary safety gear, such as eye wash stations, safety showers, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits, in case of an emergency. Functional safety equipment is vital for minimizing the potential for injuries and ensuring a rapid response to any incidents.

Visibly ensuring that safety signs are present also contributes to a safer environment, but it does not directly address the readiness and functionality of safety measures. Soliciting feedback from staff on safety procedures is valuable for continuous improvement, yet it is not a direct part of the safety inspection process itself. Conducting inspections only when problems arise neglects proactive safety measures and could lead to serious oversights in overall lab safety. Therefore, the focus on the functionality and accessibility of safety equipment stands out as a fundamental aspect of a thorough safety inspection.