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Reporting observations

5 min readLast updated January 15, 2026

Reporting observations

Safety observations are the backbone of a proactive safety culture. Verdan makes it easy to report hazards, near-misses, and positive safety behaviors.

Types of Observations

Hazard

An unsafe condition that could cause harm:

  • Unguarded openings
  • Damaged equipment
  • Improper storage of materials
  • Missing signage

Near-Miss

An event that could have resulted in injury:

  • Dropped tools from height
  • Slip without fall
  • Equipment malfunction caught early
  • Vehicle near-collision

Positive

Safe behaviors worth recognizing:

  • Proper PPE usage
  • Good housekeeping
  • Workers stopping unsafe tasks
  • Effective communication

Creating an Observation

From the Web Dashboard

  • Click Report Observation from Quick Actions
  • Select the observation type
  • Enter a detailed description
  • Add location details (area of site)
  • Upload photos (recommended)
  • Submit

From the Mobile App

  • Tap the + button
  • Select Observation
  • Take a photo directly from the app
  • Add description (voice-to-text supported)
  • The app captures your GPS location automatically
  • Submit

AI Hazard Classification

When you submit an observation, Verdan's AI automatically:

  • Analyzes the description and photos
  • Classifies the hazard category (fall, electrical, struck-by, etc.)
  • Suggests a severity level
  • References relevant OSHA standards
  • Recommends corrective actions

You can accept or modify the AI suggestions.

Observation Lifecycle

  • Reported — Initial submission
  • Under Review — Safety manager evaluating
  • Action Required — Corrective action assigned
  • In Progress — Work being done to resolve
  • Resolved — Issue addressed and verified
  • Closed — Final review and closure

Best Practices

  • Report immediately — don't wait until end of day
  • Include photos whenever possible
  • Be specific about location
  • Describe both the hazard AND potential consequence
  • Follow up on observations you've reported