Alexis Hughes
Embarking on a journey toward safety excellence involves more than routine audits and inspections—it requires a strategic and comprehensive approach. To guide you through this process, we've distilled key insights from a comprehensive white paper: "Driving Safety Excellence through Audits & Inspections." The paper, the result of interviews with numerous EHS experts, delves into 14 best practices that span the entire audit lifecycle.
Here are some key learnings:
Preparing for an Audit or Inspection
- Ensure Clear Scope Definition:
- Define audit scope and objectives with measurable goals.
- Foster Mentorship within the Audit Team:
- Promote mentorship for knowledge sharing and innovation.
- Embrace Agile Principles:
- Divide audits into sprints for adaptability using audit management software.
- Regularly Communicate:
- Automate reminders and establish various communication channels.
Performing an Audit or Inspection
- Prioritize Data to Collect:
- Develop tailored audit checklists focusing on safety culture.
- Uncover the Invisible Culture:
- Train auditors in subtle observation techniques for nuanced insights.
- Real-Time Issue Reporting:
- Implement a real-time reporting system with mobile capabilities.
- Emphasize Root Cause Analysis:
- Encourage deep dives into identifying and resolving root causes.
- Implement Robust Change Controls:
- Maintain audit focus through a strong change control process.
Following Up on an Audit or Inspection
- Cultivate Change-Minded Recommendations:
- Propose bold initiatives for cultural shifts.
- Find Safety Narratives in the Data:
- Analyze audit data for patterns and correlations.
- Create a Structured Feedback Mechanism:
- Share best practices and establish post-audit surveys for feedback.
- Training Report Reviewers for In-Depth Analysis:
- Train reviewers to explore subtleties within audit results.
- Embrace an Agile Scope for Ongoing Safety:
- Leverage audit management software for agile scope adjustments.
