Elements and Performance Criteria
- Plan an OHS audit
- The scope, objectives and benchmarks of the audit are defined.
- Relevant documentation such as preliminary material on the operation of the organisation is identified and obtained.
- Resources required to conduct the audit are identified and arranged.
- Timing, schedule and responsibilities for the audit are assigned.
- Develop an OHS audit plan
- Nature of information and data collected provides valid and reliable evidence of the systematic approach to managing OHS and risk controls within the context of the organisation.
- Sources of evidence include key personnel and stakeholders.
- Information and data collection strategies address issues of security, confidentiality, impartiality and equity.
- Information and data collection strategies include opportunities for corroborating evidence.
- The audit plan is developed, documented and submitted to client.
- The audit plan is modified as a result of client input and to adapt to contingencies.
- Develop an OHS audit tool
- Audit tool(s) accurately reflect the criteria of the benchmark, nature of risks and identified relevant information and data types.
- Audit tools focus on evaluation of performance of the OHS management processes.
- Audit tools can be used with consistent outcomes by all members of the audit team.
- Audit tools enable collection of evidence in a timely and efficient manner.
- Audit tools are modified as a result of preliminary trial/s.
- Gather information, data and OHS records
- A broad range of workplace personnel are consulted during evidence gathering activities throughout the audit.
- Types and sources of evidence gathered are compared with the audit plan, and reasons for discrepancies are identified.
- Alternative methods are identified and utilised when evidence is not forthcoming, using planned methods.
- Information and data reliability is checked with a number of sources.
- Undertake OHS audit activities
- Preliminary evaluation is undertaken.
- Audit plan is re-submitted to client for comment as appropriate.
- Issues concerning the audit plan are negotiated with the client and documents amended where required.
- Initial meetings and worksite familiarisation are undertaken.
- Progress of the audit plan is monitored with the client and/or audit team members to ensure resources are being used as planned, and that the audit objectives and audit time lines are being achieved.
- Records of evidence and findings are progressively documented in an appropriate format and retained.
- Hazards identified during the audit are reported promptly to the appropriate person/s, including supervisor and/or person in control of the workplace.
- Own health and safety is addressed during the audit in accordance with organisational requirements and standards for safe work practices.
- Information and data collection and evaluation activities comply with legal requirements and are carried out ethically.
- Exit meetings with key personnel and stakeholders are undertaken as appropriate.
- Report on the outcomes of the OHS audit
- Objective evidence is presented with clear and concise findings, including benefits to be achieved by adoption of the audit report recommendations.