We are committed to providing a safe workplace for our employees. To support this, we are excited to launch our new OHS Internal Audit Program and have a list of Frequently Asked Questions below.
What is the internal OHS audit program?
The OHS Internal Audit Program will assist our teams to:
- recognise any gaps in the implementation of key safety requirements,
- ensure continual improvement in processes for managing risk, and
- improve our overall safety performance and the health and safety of our people.
The program also aims to verify the implementation of Monash Health Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) and identify opportunities for OHSMS and OHS performance improvements.
Why is this program starting?
The OHS Audit Program provides the OHS team an opportunity to provide one-on-one coaching with managers to build capability for safety leadership across our organisation. It also provides an assurance and ensures compliance with critical safety requirements.
When will this be happening?
The OHS Audit Program will launch in March 2023.
How will I know? How often will I be audited?
The OHS Advisor (auditor) will organise a time with the manager and give four weeks’ notice of the audit. Each area will be audited at least once every three years.
What will happen in the audit? How long does it take?
The OHS Advisor (Auditor) will complete a desktop review before the audit. On the day of the audit, the auditor will introduce the audit and then work directly with the manager and HSR to answer the audit questions. The audit will take approximately one hour.
Is there anything that I can do to prepare for the OHS internal audit?
Managers will be sent the New Manager Safety Toolkit, which contains a checklist for managers to follow when they have scheduled the audit.
This can also be found on the Safety Intranet.
Can I fail an OHS internal audit?
You can’t “fail” an audit. The audits are primarily to coach and improve the capability of Managers in Safety Leadership. Data will be used to identify key areas of non-compliance that OHS can focus on for future improvement projects.
What happens with the results? Will these be published?
The data from the audits will be used by the OHS team to improve on gaps found during audits.
The report will be sent to Managers and quarterly reporting will be provided to local committees and the OHS Management Committee on the numbers of audits completed, key findings, and trends.
What is the follow-up for outstanding actions?
There is a three-month time allocation for any criteria “not met” during the audit. The audit software will send reminders to a Manager to complete any outstanding actions.
What areas of OHS will I get audited on?
The OHS Workplace Audit has questions on the following topics.
- Incident investigation
- OVA Risk Assessment and Actions
- Workplace inspections in PROTECT, and action status
- OHS noticeboard
- Consultation with employees on OHS matters
- Employee OHS Induction
- Chem Alert Chemical Management System
- Health and Safety Representatives
- Latte mandatory OHS training
Please refer to the New Manager Safety Toolkit available on the Safety Intranet for further information.
Approved by Chris McLoughlin