Guide to an EH&S Audit and Its Value
Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) audits are critical to an organization’s responsibility to maintain regulatory compliance and a safe and compliant workplace. These audits assess compliance with environmental regulations, occupational health and safety laws, and internal policies designed to protect workers, the environment, and the public.
Understanding EH&S Audits
An EH&S audit is a systematic, objective, and documented process of assessing how well an organization adheres to applicable environmental and workplace safety regulations. These regulations may be mandated by federal bodies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), state-specific agencies, or even international standards such as ISO 14001 or ISO 45001.
EH&S audits may be internal, conducted by the company’s safety team, or external, performed by third-party specialists. The main objectives of an EH&S audit include:
- Identifying compliance gaps
- Assessing the effectiveness of EH&S programs
- Ensuring worker health and environmental protection
- Reducing risk and liability
- Improving organizational performance
Key Components of an EH&S Audit
A comprehensive EH&S audit typically covers several areas:
Ensure Regulatory Compliance
The audit ensures adherence to OSHA, EPA, and state/local regulations. It checks for compliance with laws on hazardous materials, waste disposal, emissions, noise, chemical storage, and worker safety protocols.
Site Inspection
EHS Compliance Auditors walk the facility to identify potential hazards, unsafe work practices, or environmental risks. This hands-on evaluation ensures real-world safety performance aligns with documented procedures.
Documentation and Record Review
EH&S auditors verify that the company maintains accurate and up-to-date documentation, including training logs, safety data sheets (SDS), injury and illness reports, and environmental permits.
Interviews with Staff
Interviews with employees and management help gauge EH&S culture, awareness of safety protocols, and any gaps between policy and practice.
Corrective Actions and Recommendations
Following the audit, findings are documented, and actionable recommendations are provided. Companies receive a corrective action plan to address deficiencies.
Why EH&S Audits Are Important
Ensure Legal Compliance
Regulatory compliance is one of the most critical reasons for conducting EH&S audits. Failing to comply with OSHA, EPA, or state regulations can lead to costly penalties, lawsuits, or even shutdowns. Regular audits help organizations avoid compliance issues by identifying violations before regulatory inspections occur.
Protect Employee Health and Safety
A robust EH&S audit identifies workplace hazards such as fall risks, chemical exposures, poor air quality, or inadequate emergency response plans. Addressing these risks improves worker safety, reduces injuries, and can lower workers’ compensation claims and insurance premiums.
Safeguard the Environment
Many industries generate waste, emissions, or effluents that can harm the environment. EH&S audits ensure organizations handle these responsibly and comply with environmental laws. This helps reduce contamination, air pollution, and resource waste while promoting sustainability.
Reduce Financial and Legal Risks
Litigation, fines, and lost productivity due to safety violations or environmental incidents can be financially devastating. Companies can minimize exposure to legal and financial liabilities by conducting proactive audits to identify and correct issues early.
Improve Operational Efficiency
EH&S audits often uncover inefficiencies such as unnecessary waste, outdated equipment, or poor training practices. Implementing recommended improvements can lead to increased productivity, reduced downtime, and cost savings.
Enhance Reputation and Stakeholder Confidence
Consumers, investors, and employees increasingly value sustainability and corporate responsibility. A strong EH&S program supported by regular audits demonstrates that a company is committed to ethical operations, employee well-being, and environmental stewardship.
Prepare for External Audits and Certifications
Whether preparing for ISO 14001 (Environmental Management Systems), ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety), or other certifications, EH&S audits are a critical preparatory step. They ensure that systems function effectively and that documentation and processes align with certification requirements.
Frequency and Types of EH&S Audits
There is no one-size-fits-all schedule for EH&S audits. The frequency depends on the business’s nature, risk level, and past audit results. However, here are the common types:
- Compliance Audits – Evaluate adherence to laws and regulations.
- Program Audits – Review specific programs like respiratory protection, confined space entry, or spill response.
- Management System Audits – Ensure alignment with management frameworks like ISO standards.
- Behavioral Safety Audits – Observe worker behaviors and practices to assess safety culture.
Common Findings During EH&S Audits
- Incomplete or outdated safety training
- Improper storage or labeling of chemicals
- Inadequate ventilation or air monitoring
- Poor documentation or recordkeeping
- Unreported or poorly managed incidents
- Lapses in personal protective equipment (PPE) usage
- Unsafe machine guarding or electrical systems
Addressing these findings helps create a safer, more compliant, and more efficient workplace.
Who Should Conduct EH&S Audits?
While some organizations may have internal EH&S professionals capable of performing audits, bringing in a third-party expert provides several advantages:
- Unbiased Perspective – External auditors are objective and often catch issues internal staff may overlook.
- Up-to-date Knowledge – EH&S consultants stay current with regulatory updates and best practices.
- Specialized Expertise – External firms often have industry-specific experience and can provide more thorough evaluations.
Preparing for an EH&S Audit
- Review existing policies and procedures.
- Ensure all required documentation is up to date.
- Conduct internal inspections ahead of the audit.
- Train employees on safety and compliance expectations.
- Designate knowledgeable staff to assist auditors during the visit.
Taking these steps improves audit outcomes and reduces disruptions to operations.
Your Next Step Toward a Safer Workplace
EH&S audits ensure regulatory compliance, protect workers and the environment, and drive continuous improvement. Whether your organization is in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, or any industry with operational hazards, conducting regular EH&S audits is a wise investment.
If your business is looking to ensure safety, reduce risk, and stay compliant, it’s essential to partner with a professional team that understands the complexities of EH&S regulations and practices.
Build a Safer, Smarter Organization
PHASE Associates offers comprehensive Environmental Health and Safety audits custom to your industry. With decades of experience, the expert consultants can help identify hazards, ensure compliance, and implement effective solutions.
Contact PHASE Associates today to schedule an EH&S audit and take the first step toward a safer, more compliant workplace at 973-597-0750 and [email protected].