The Complete Health & Safety Audit Checklist

Health and safety in the workplace is not just a legal requirement; it is a moral responsibility that every organisation must uphold. A safe and healthy workplace fosters higher productivity, enhances the quality of life for employees, and boosts overall employee morale. While hazards may be an inherent part of many organisations, those that prioritise mitigating risks and ensuring safety are on the path to preventing incidents and creating better work environments. Protecting the physical and mental well-being of employees is not just an ethical imperative but also results in a more efficient and productively run workplace. 

What is a Health and Safety Audit

One effective way to ensure the effectiveness of safety measures and protocols in place is by conducting a health and safety audit. A health and safety audit is a comprehensive assessment of an organisation’s health and safety policies, processes, procedures, and systems. The primary goal of an audit is to identify any gaps in safety measures and recommend steps to mitigate risks and hazards effectively. Moreover, it serves as a valuable tool for continuous improvement in an organisation’s health and safety practices. 

Checklist 

The content and scope of a health and safety audit checklist may vary depending on the industry and specific requirements. However, the following are some essential elements that could be included in a comprehensive health and safety audit checklist:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Are employees properly trained in the correct use and removal of PPE?
• Is the PPE in good condition and suitable for specific tasks?
• Is it necessary to provide PPE based on OSHA regulations, and if so, is it being used appropriately?

Tools and Machinery 

• Are all dangerous, complex, or heavy machinery regularly checked for safety?
• Are employees adequately trained to operate machinery safely?
• Is it necessary to provide PPE based on OSHA regulations, and if so, is it being used appropriately?

Electrical Safety

• Are the necessary safety equipment and procedures in place for electrical elements in the workplace?
• Is there adequate lighting provided for employees to work safely?
• Are employees who work with electricity trained to handle it safely?

Fire Safety 

• Are there clear fire safety evacuation procedures in place?
• Are evacuation routes clearly marked and easily accessible?
• Are employees aware of fire emergency protocols?

Chemical/Hazardous Substance Storage 

• Are proper procedures in place for the usage and storage of hazardous substances?
• Are employees handling hazardous substances properly trained and informed about potential risks?

Working from Height 

• Is all equipment used for working at height regularly checked and in good condition?
• Are weight restrictions clearly labelled and adhered to?
• Are employees trained in using ladders and other height-related equipment safely?

Health and Safety Audit Schedule 

In addition to the checklist criteria, a health and safety audit should outline appropriate scheduling for regular inspections. The frequency of audits may vary based on the risk level of the organisation and industry-specific regulations. Regular inspections are essential to ensure ongoing compliance and identify any areas that may need improvement. 

Health and Safety Audit Checklist Template

Creating a customised health and safety audit checklist tailored to the specific needs of an organisation is crucial for its effectiveness. Organisations can utilise Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) software solutions to develop a unique checklist that aligns with regulations and standards. EHS software streamlines the audit process, provides on-the-go access through mobile devices, and offers features such as monitoring, image attachments, automated reports, and quick data generation via dashboards. 

Conclusion

A health and safety audit checklist is a vital tool for any organisation to ensure the well-being of its employees and comply with regulatory requirements. By conducting periodic inspections and identifying potential dangers, organisations can proactively address safety issues and create safer work environments. A well-designed audit checklist, supported by EHS software, can simplify the audit process, enhance workplace safety, and protect both employees and the organisation from legal fines and reputational damage. Prioritising health and safety not only demonstrates a commitment to employees’ welfare but also contributes to a more productive and successful workplace.