Make deficiencies specific

“Needs repair” leaves the next person guessing. Record what was observed, where it was found and enough detail to understand the concern. Photos can help when they add useful context.

Decide what needs immediate action

Some findings can wait for scheduled maintenance. Others mean equipment or an area should not be used until the hazard is controlled. Your process should make that distinction clear and escalate serious concerns quickly.

Assign ownership

A corrective action without an owner often becomes everybody’s problem and therefore nobody’s task. Assign it to a person who can either complete the work or coordinate the next step.

Close the loop

Track the action until completion and record what was done. Recurring deficiencies are also useful information: they may point to maintenance, training, purchasing or process issues that need more than a one-time repair.

This article provides general information, not legal advice. Requirements can vary with your industry, work and circumstances. Confirm current requirements with Alberta OHS and, for COR/SECOR, your Certifying Partner.

Official sources

Alberta — Report unsafe work ↗