When purchased materials are received by the utility, they should not be?

When received materials are being managed by a utility, it's essential to ensure that their storage is done appropriately for efficient inventory management and accessibility. The aspect of placing items on shelves where they will be used first relates to the concept of inventory management known as "first in, first out" (FIFO). However, it's generally not advisable to place items directly on shelves designated for use without first conducting adequate checks and inspections.

The reason this approach may not be ideal is that prior to shelving, materials must be verified for accuracy, quality, and compliance with specifications outlined in the purchase order. This process helps in identifying any discrepancies, defects, or issues that need to be addressed before the items are put into operational use. Therefore, prioritizing the organizing of items for use rather than ensuring all verification and inspections have been satisfactorily completed can lead to operational problems, incorrect usage of defective materials, and potential safety hazards.

In contrast, counting and checking against purchase orders, inspecting materials, and recording them are all critical processes that help maintain control over inventory, prevent mistakes, and ensure that only the correct and quality materials are utilized in operations.