What is an essential step a leader must take before conducting an inspection?

An essential step a leader must take before conducting an inspection is to ensure all personnel are informed of expectations. This is critical because clear communication prepares individuals for the inspection process, outlining what will be assessed and the standards they are expected to meet. When personnel understand the expectations, they can better organize their environment and behaviors in alignment with those standards, reducing anxiety and confusion. Establishing these expectations also promotes accountability and fosters a culture of preparedness, which ultimately leads to a more effective and efficient inspection.

The other options do not contribute to effective inspection preparation. Conducting the inspection randomly may lead to inconsistency and confusion among personnel. Preparing an inspection report beforehand is useful after the inspection but not as a preparatory step for informing personnel. Lastly, choosing the inspection date last minute does not allow adequate time for individuals to prepare, which can undermine the integrity of the inspection process.