OSH Security Practice Test

An employee has been fired and you are under direction to retrieve company property they keep in their locker. What do you do?

1. Immediately open the locker with bolt cutters and seize the company property

2. Ask management for a second key and have the foreman witness what you remove and turn over the fired employee’s property at a later date

3. Let the employee empty their locker and bring the items to you at your post

4. Escort them, get them to open the locker, document everything belonging to the company and have them sign that you have obtained these items from them.

The correct answer is: Escort them, get them to open the locker, document everything belonging to the company and have them sign that you have obtained these items from them.

The appropriate course of action in this situation is to escort the former employee to their locker, have them open it, document all items that belong to the company, and obtain their signature confirming that these items have been retrieved. This method ensures a respectful and orderly process while safeguarding the company’s property. By escorting the employee, you are maintaining a professional and neutral stance, which can help de-escalate any potential tensions following their termination. Documenting the items serves as a record that can protect both the company and the individual in case of any disputes regarding the retrieval of property. Having the employee sign off on the items not only provides further evidence of the transaction but also signifies that they acknowledge the removal of their belongings. This approach promotes transparency and accountability, which are critical to ensuring that all actions taken are in line with company policies and legal standards. It also demonstrates respect for the individual’s rights during a potentially sensitive time.