Need to conduct an audit of EHS practices? Follow this checklist
Conducting a comprehensive review of your company's Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) practices is crucial for identifying compliance gaps and areas for improvement. Here's a 10-step checklist to guide you through this audit process:
1. Gather Relevant Regulations and Standards
Compile a list of applicable OSHA standards (e.g., 29 CFR 1926 for construction) and environmental regulations (federal, state, local).
Include industry best practices and internal company EHS policies.
2. Review Current EHS Policies and Procedures
Collect and review existing EHS documents, including safety manuals, training materials, and emergency response plans.
Evaluate their alignment with the gathered regulations and standards.
3. Conduct Site Inspections
Perform walkthroughs of various construction sites to observe operations, focusing on areas with high potential for non-compliance.
Use a standardized checklist that aligns with OSHA standards and environmental regulations.
4. Evaluate Employee Training and Awareness
Review training records and content to ensure compliance with OSHA’s training requirements.
Assess employee awareness of EHS policies, procedures, and their specific roles and responsibilities.
5. Assess Hazard Identification and Risk Management Processes
Examine how hazards are identified, assessed, and managed.
Review the effectiveness of risk control measures in place.
6. Inspect Equipment and Machinery
Check maintenance records and safety features of equipment and machinery used on-site.
Ensure compliance with OSHA’s machinery and equipment safety standards.
7. Audit Incident Reporting and Investigation Procedures
Evaluate the process for reporting, investigating, and documenting workplace incidents and near-misses.
Check for thoroughness and timeliness in addressing and resolving issues.
8. Review Waste Management and Environmental Protection Practices
Assess compliance with hazardous waste management regulations and practices for reducing environmental impact (e.g., erosion control, air and water pollution prevention).
9. Analyze Data on Previous EHS Performance
Review records of past audits, inspections, incidents, and corrective actions taken.
Identify trends or recurring issues that require attention.
10. Prepare an Audit Report
Document findings, highlighting areas of non-compliance and opportunities for improvement.
Prioritize issues based on risk level and propose actionable recommendations.
This checklist provides a structured approach to evaluate the effectiveness of your company's EHS program against regulatory requirements and best practices. It's essential to address identified gaps promptly and continuously monitor and improve EHS practices to ensure compliance and protect the health and safety of employees and the environment.