Workplace Inspections & Audits policy template
Establish a systematic approach to workplace safety inspections and audits. Define inspection schedules, checklists, corrective action processes and documentation requirements to maintain safety standards.
Workplace inspections policy
PDF format • Ready to download
By downloading, you agree to our template disclaimer
Why workplace inspections are critical
Regular workplace inspections are a fundamental requirement of WHS risk management. They allow you to proactively identify hazards before they cause injuries, demonstrate due diligence and maintain compliance with safety regulations.
Inspections provide documented evidence that you are actively monitoring workplace conditions and taking steps to control risks. This is essential for defending against WHS prosecutions and demonstrating your commitment to continuous improvement.
Without a structured inspection program, hazards can go unnoticed until an incident occurs. A formal policy ensures inspections happen consistently, findings are documented properly and corrective actions are completed.
Key elements of an inspections policy
What your workplace inspections policy should cover
Inspection schedule
Defined frequency and timing for regular workplace safety inspections.
Checklists
Standardised inspection checklists covering all workplace areas and hazards.
Corrective actions
Process for identifying and implementing fixes to safety issues.
Documentation
Requirements for recording inspection findings and outcomes.
Follow-up process
System to track and verify completion of corrective actions.
Audit requirements
Framework for conducting comprehensive safety audits.
What's included in this template
Comprehensive inspection and audit framework
Purpose & scope
Why inspections are required and who is responsible.
Types of inspections
Different inspection categories and their purposes.
Inspection frequency
How often different areas and equipment must be inspected.
Inspection checklists
Standardised forms and criteria for conducting inspections.
Conducting inspections
Step-by-step process for completing workplace inspections.
Documenting findings
How to record and report inspection results.
Corrective actions
Process for addressing identified safety issues.
Follow-up procedures
Tracking and verifying completion of corrective actions.
Audit requirements
Comprehensive safety system audits and reviews.
Review & improvement
How the inspection process is evaluated and enhanced.
Who should use this template?
Essential for businesses with active safety programs
Legal disclaimer
This template is designed to reflect Australian WHS requirements at the time of publication. It is provided as a general guide only and does not constitute legal advice.
You should review and tailor this template to suit your business, industry and specific workplace hazards. For high-risk industries, seek independent WHS professional advice.
Regulatory sources
This template is aligned with official Australian workplace health and safety requirements.
Ready to establish your inspection program?
Download our workplace inspections policy template and build a systematic approach to safety monitoring. Store this policy and track employee acknowledgements with RosterElf's HR software.
Looking for more templates? Browse all safety & compliance templates
Workplace inspections policy FAQ
- Frequency depends on the workplace risk level. Monthly inspections are common for most workplaces; higher-risk areas may need weekly or daily checks. Conduct additional inspections after incidents, changes, or when new hazards are identified. Follow our guide on how to conduct a WHS assessment.
- Involve supervisors and workers who know the area, plus health and safety representatives. Fresh eyes (someone from another area) can sometimes spot hazards that become invisible to regular workers. Consider specialist inspections for specific hazards.
- Document findings, assess risks, prioritise actions, and assign responsibility with timeframes. Track corrective actions to completion. Review inspection data for trends and systemic issues. Report findings to management and safety committees.
- Yes. This template provides a solid foundation, but you should tailor it to reflect your specific workplace hazards, industry requirements, and applicable WHS legislation. Consult with your workers and health and safety representatives during the customisation process.
- Distribute the policy during safety induction for new employees and via toolbox talks or safety meetings for existing staff. Ensure the policy is accessible on noticeboards or your intranet. Using HR software with policy management can track acknowledgements.
Related guides
Learn more about implementing this policy
Related templates
Build a complete safety management system
Hazard & risk management policy
Framework for identifying and controlling workplace hazards.
View templateWHS policy
Foundational policy outlining safety obligations and commitments.
View templateIncident reporting policy
Requirements for reporting and investigating workplace incidents.
View templateDisclaimer
This document is a general HR template provided for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and may not reflect the latest changes in legislation or apply to every workplace situation. RosterElf Pty Ltd and the template provider accept no liability for any loss arising from reliance on this document. Users should seek independent legal advice and customise the template to ensure it complies with all relevant laws, awards and workplace requirements.