Ahhh checklist- when is a checklist not a checklist?
MEL is a checklist and one aspect of OR/operating theatres is minimum equipment checklists. So far so good.
Is the World Health Organisation checklist a checklist? it has some aspects which are, but mostly its a permit to work document. It takes a few seconds to "time out" and ensure that the operation that the surgeon planned is the same one which the staff are preparing for. Basic stuff but Ive left out the part of the document which concerns anaesthesia as that is a distinct discipline. It covers aspects of the patient's general condition which may not be important but may be extremely important. Allergy information for instance. Most allergic reactions are irritating but some can kill, and quickly. The WHO checklist is often the final control measure before surgery.
I have tried to form an analogy from air traffic control to surgical staff. Until the permission to go (operate or take off) is given then nothing should happen.