Plant Safety Audit

  • Site conducted

  • What site are you auditing?

  • Conducted on

  • Prepared by

  • Additional people on audit from plant and audit team:

  • Location

Documents Inspection

  • Access OSHA logs for the last 5 years

  • Show completed required training for the past 12 months

  • Show certified forklift operators and training docs

  • Show certified crane operators and training docs

  • Show completed training for authorized LOTO employees

  • Show completed general training for affected LOTO employees

  • Show Hot Work training completion

LOTO

  • Have authorized LOTO employees who perform LOTO been trained and signed off?

  • Have all other affected employees been trained and signed off?

  • Are LOTO procedures or QR codes posted on all equipment?

  • Which equipment is missing LOTO procedures?

  • Is there a sufficient supply of lockout devices (padlocks, hasps, valve lockouts, etc.)?

  • Are lockout locks standardized by color, size or shape?

  • LOTO locks must be standardized by either color, size, or shape.

  • How are the locks standardized?

  • Are energy isolation points clearly labeled and identified on all equipment?

  • Is verification of isolation performed before starting maintenance work?

  • Are all affected workers notified before the start of maintenance or servicing activities?

  • Are regular audits of the LOTO program conducted (at least annually)?

  • Are audit findings documented, and corrective actions taken for any deficiencies?

Housekeeping

    Housekeeping
  • When conducting a safety audit with a focus on housekeeping, it's essential to ask questions that help identify potential hazards, ensure compliance with safety standards, and maintain a clean and organized environment. Here are some housekeeping-related questions you could consider:

  • What area are you auditing?

  • What is the area you are auditing?

  • Is there clutter and other debris on the floor?

  • What items are on the floor that should not be?

  • Around the work area are there items that should not be in the area?

  • What items should not be in the area?

  • Are there any trash bins that are full and need to be taken out?

  • Are all tools, equipment, and supplies stored properly to prevent tripping or injury?

  • Is all equipment and materials stored in designated areas to avoid accidents?

  • Are shelves and storage racks properly labeled and organized to prevent unsafe stacking or overloading?

  • Are flammable or hazardous materials stored correctly according to safety guidelines?

  • Are walkways and exits unobstructed, with no stored items blocking access?

  • How do you rate the housekeeping in this area? 10 is perfect and 1 is very bad

  • Are all pedestrian walkways clear of obstruction?

  • Note any other issues good and bad:

PPE

    PPE
  • When conducting a safety audit with a focus on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), it's important to ensure that the proper equipment is being used, maintained, and readily available for employees to minimize workplace hazards. Here are some key questions you can ask related to PPE during a safety audit:

  • What area are you auditing?

  • What area are you auditing?

  • Is the necessary PPE readily available to all employees in the required areas?

  • Are employees able to easily access the proper PPE without delays or difficulty?

  • Is the PPE selected appropriate for the specific hazards present in the workplace?

  • Are employees aware of the potential risks of not using PPE?

  • Are areas requiring PPE clearly marked with appropriate signage?

  • How many people are working in the area?

  • How many people are wearing safety glasses correctly?

  • How many are wearing hearing protection correctly?

  • How many are wearing cut resistant sleeves correctly? (count people who are not required in this number)

  • How many are wearing cut resistant gloves correctly? (count people who are not required in this number)

  • Overall how would you rate the PPE usage in this area? (10 is perfect and 1 is very bad)

  • Any additional comments:

Electrical

    Electrical
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  • Conducting an electrical safety audit in a manufacturing plant is essential to identify and mitigate electrical hazards that could lead to accidents, fires, or other safety concerns. An electrical safety audit should examine the facility’s systems, equipment, maintenance, and employee practices. Below are key questions you can use for an electrical safety audit in a manufacturing plant:

  • What area are you auditing?

  • What area are you auditing?

  • Are electrical panels and equipment clearly labeled to identify their function and any hazards?

  • Are all electrical panels and circuit breakers easily accessible and not obstructed by materials or equipment?

  • Identify issues:

  • Is electrical wiring properly routed, supported, and protected from damage (e.g., no exposed or frayed wiring)?

  • Are extension cords and temporary wiring being used properly and only for short-term needs, not as permanent solutions?

  • Are electrical devices (plugs, receptacles) in good working condition, with no exposed wiring, missing prongs, or faulty connections?

  • Are electrical systems and equipment protected from exposure to moisture, dust, or other environmental hazards that could cause short circuits or other problems?

  • Are proper barriers or enclosures in place to prevent accidental contact with exposed live parts?

  • Are electrical panels, junction boxes, and switchgear labeled with warning signs or labels to identify electrical hazards (e.g., “High Voltage” or “Shock Hazard”)?

Chemicals/SDS/Hazardous Waste

Chemicals/SDS/Hazardous Waste

  • When conducting an audit for chemicals, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and hazardous waste in a manufacturing plant, the goal is to ensure that hazardous materials are managed in a safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible manner. The audit should assess how chemicals are stored, handled, and disposed of, as well as ensure that employees are properly trained on their safe use. Below is a list of questions that can guide your audit in these areas:

  • What area are you auditing?

  • What area are you auditing?

  • Are all chemicals properly labeled with their identity and hazard warnings (e.g., flammable, corrosive, toxic)?

  • Are chemicals stored in designated areas according to their type and compatibility (e.g., acids separate from bases, flammables away from ignition sources)?

  • Are storage areas adequately ventilated to prevent the buildup of hazardous fumes or gases?

  • Are chemicals stored in appropriate containers (e.g., unbroken seals, corrosion-resistant materials) that prevent leaks or spills?

  • Is the chemical storage area equipped with secondary containment (e.g., spill pallets, trays) to prevent leaks from spreading?

  • Are flammable chemicals stored away from heat sources or open flames, and are appropriate fire prevention measures in place?

  • Are emergency response procedures in place for chemical spills, and do they include specific instructions based on the chemicals involved?

  • Are emergency eyewash stations, safety showers, or other first-aid equipment accessible near areas where chemicals are used or stored?

  • Are spill kits and clean-up materials readily available in areas where chemicals are used or stored?

  • Are employees trained in spill response, including how to contain, clean, and report spills promptly?

  • Are emergency contact numbers (e.g., local emergency responders, poison control) prominently displayed near chemical storage areas?

  • Is appropriate PPE (e.g., gloves, goggles, face shields, respirators) available and worn by employees handling chemicals?

SDS

  • Are current and complete SDS available for all chemicals used or stored on-site?

  • Are SDS easily accessible to all employees who may be exposed to chemicals (e.g., in a centralized location, digital access)?

  • Do SDS include proper hazard identification, including physical, health, and environmental hazards, as well as first-aid measures?

  • Are employees trained on how to read and understand SDS, and how to locate them in an emergency?

Hazardous Waste

  • Does this plant have hazardous waste?

  • Are hazardous wastes segregated according to type (e.g., solvents, oils, batteries) to prevent reactions or contamination?

  • Are hazardous waste containers clearly labeled with the contents, hazard warnings, and accumulation start dates?

  • are waste containers in good condition and regularly inspected for leaks or damage?

  • Are hazardous waste containers properly sealed when not in use to prevent spills or leaks?

  • Are waste containers stored in a secure, designated area with appropriate containment systems (e.g., spill pallets)?

  • Are hazardous wastes disposed of by an authorized, licensed waste disposal company in compliance with regulations?

  • Is there a written hazardous waste management plan, and is it reviewed regularly for compliance with local, state, and federal regulations?

  • Are employees trained in proper hazardous waste handling and disposal procedures, including emergency response?

  • Are records kept for the collection, transportation, and disposal of hazardous waste, and are these records up-to-date?

Machine Safety

    Machine Safety
  • When conducting a machine safety audit in a manufacturing plant, the goal is to identify potential hazards associated with the machinery and ensure that proper safety protocols are in place to protect workers. The audit should cover machine design, maintenance, safeguarding, and employee practices. Below are key questions to guide your machine safety audit:

  • What area are you auditing?

  • What area are you auditing?

  • Are machines equipped with appropriate safeguards to protect workers from moving parts (e.g., physical barriers, safety interlocks)?

  • Are all machine guards in place and functioning correctly (e.g., no missing or damaged guards)?

  • Are machine guards designed to prevent access to hazardous areas while still allowing workers to perform their tasks safely?

  • Are rotating parts, belts, pulleys, and gears properly guarded to prevent accidental contact?

  • Are machine guard openings designed to prevent any part of a worker's body from entering the danger zone (e.g., no gaps or holes in the guards)?

  • Do machine controls allow workers to operate the machinery from a safe distance or position?

  • Are machines equipped with emergency stop buttons that are easily accessible and clearly labeled?

  • Are safety devices such as light curtains, pressure-sensitive mats, or laser scanners in place for machines that require additional safety measures?

  • Is there a system in place for reporting and addressing unsafe machines or faulty equipment promptly?

  • Are machines and equipment regularly inspected for safety and operational integrity (e.g., visual inspections, functional tests)?

  • Are maintenance schedules documented and adhered to for routine checks and repairs?

  • Are worn or damaged parts replaced in a timely manner to maintain machine safety and proper function?

  • Are there preventive maintenance programs to avoid unexpected breakdowns that could lead to unsafe conditions?

  • Are operators trained on safe machine operation, including hazard recognition, proper use, and emergency stop procedures?

  • Do operators know how to safely start, stop, and adjust machines, and are they familiar with all safety features of the machines they operate?

  • Are operators trained on the potential hazards associated with the specific machines they use (e.g., pinch points, electrical hazards, moving parts)?

  • Are electrical connections for machines properly installed and maintained (e.g., no exposed wires, no frayed cables)?

Emergency Stops

  • Are emergency stop buttons clearly marked, easily accessible, and functional on all machines?

  • Are emergency stop systems tested regularly to ensure they work properly in case of an emergency?

  • Are employees trained in how to activate emergency stops or shut down machines safely in case of a malfunction or emergency?

Signage

  • Are safety signs and labels present on or near machines to identify hazards (e.g., moving parts, pinch points, electrical hazards)?

  • Are safety labels clear, legible, and placed in visible locations on machinery and equipment?

  • Do the safety signs include specific warnings (e.g., “Keep Hands Away,” “High Voltage,” “Wear PPE”) based on the hazards present?

Noise

  • Are noise levels measured around machinery to ensure they are within permissible limits (e.g., OSHA noise exposure limits)?

  • Note some dBs around equimpment including where you are and what equipment you are near:

First Aid Response

  • Is there a 1st responders team?

  • A 1st responder team is important and should be established.

  • When were they last certified/trained? (required biannually)

  • Is there at least 1 AED in the plant?

  • Have there been 1st responders trained in how to use it?

  • Is the 1st responder team posted for people to see?

  • Is there a dedicated 1st aid room?

  • How does the room look from housekeeping standard?

  • Is there a 1st aid cabinet in the room?

  • Is it fully stocked?

  • Are there adequate 1st aid cabinets in the plant?

Fire Safety

  • Are employees trained in fire safety and emergency response procedures?

  • Is there an operational fire detection and alarm system in place (e.g., smoke detectors, heat detectors)?

  • Are detectors and alarms tested regularly, and is there a maintenance schedule? (verify documentation)

  • Is the fire alarm system linked to an external emergency service (e.g., local fire department)?

Fire Extinguishers

  • Are fire extinguishers available and accessible throughout the facility?

  • Are fire extinguishers of the correct type for the hazards present (e.g., Class A, B, C, D, K)?

  • Are fire extinguishers inspected monthly, and are inspection records kept?

  • Are fire extinguishers mounted in clear, unobstructed locations?

  • Are tags on the fire extinguishers up to date and signed/dated?

  • Are employees trained on the proper use of fire extinguishers (PASS method)?

  • Is there a fixed fire suppression system (e.g., sprinklers, chemical suppression) in high-risk areas?

  • Are all fire extinguishers unobstructed?

  • Are fire extinguisher locations clearly marked?

Emergency exits and evacuation routes

  • Are emergency exits clearly marked with illuminated exit signs?

  • Are emergency exit routes free of obstructions and properly maintained?

  • Are exit doors easy to open from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge?

  • Are evacuation plans clearly posted in common areas?

  • Do employees know the nearest exit routes and assembly areas?

Fire equipment and maintenance

  • Are fire safety systems inspected annually by a licensed professional? (verify documentation)

Hot Work

  • Are hot work permits required for activities like welding, cutting, or grinding? (Outside of designated hot work zones)

  • Are designated hot work zones clearly defined with signage?

  • Are designated hot work zones free of combustibles and flammables?

  • Are fire watch procedures in place when hot work is being conducted?

  • Are combustible materials removed or covered during hot work operations?

  • Is there an adequate supply of fire extinguishers in areas where hot work is performed?

  • Have people authorized to do hot work outside hot work zones been trained and signed off on training?

  • Have people working in hot work designated zones been trained properly and signed off on training?

  • Pull some random hot work permits and audit completions. Were they all fully completed?

Work behavior

Culture

  • Is safety viewed as a priority by management?

  • Do supervisors and managers actively model safe work behaviors?

  • Are safety meetings and discussions held regularly, and is there active participation from all levels?

  • How are safety meeting held on the regular basis?

Employee Engagement

  • Are employees encouraged to report hazards, near misses, or unsafe behaviors without fear of retaliation?

  • Are employees actively involved in the development and implementation of safety procedures?

  • Are there mechanisms for employees to provide feedback on safety issues (e.g., safety committees, suggestion boxes)?

  • Are employees recognized or rewarded for demonstrating safe behaviors?

  • Is there accountability for employees who break known safety rules?

Safe Work Practices

  • Are safe work procedures documented and available for all tasks?

  • Are workers trained on and expected to follow safe work practices?

  • Are employees using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as required for their tasks?

  • Are tools and equipment maintained in safe operating condition, and are employees trained to use them safely?

  • Are safe lifting techniques and ergonomic practices promoted for material handling tasks?

  • Observe workers
  • What area are you observing? (You may repeat this section in multiple area)

  • Are employees consistently following safety rules, including wearing the required PPE and using equipment correctly?

  • Are there any observable unsafe behaviors (e.g., bypassing safety devices, improper lifting, horseplay)?

  • Are employees observed working alone in hazardous areas without proper safeguards or communication protocols?

  • Are employees using tools or equipment that are not in proper working condition or have not been inspected?

  • Are employees using equipment in a manner that deviates from standard operating procedures (SOPs)?

  • Are employees familiar with the hazards in their work area and the necessary precautions?

  • Have you observed any unsafe acts?

  • Explain

  • Have you observed good/safe acts worth sharing?

  • Describe event:

Supervisors and management

  • Are supervisors and team leads consistently enforcing safety rules and providing guidance on safe work practices?

  • Are supervisors and team leads consistently "walking the walk" in safety? (always wearing all PPE, etc.)

  • Are supervisors conducting regular safety observations to identify unsafe behaviors and provide coaching when necessary?

  • Are safety audits or walk-arounds regularly performed by management and supervisors?

  • Are corrective actions taken when unsafe behaviors or conditions are identified during safety audits or observations?

  • Are safety meetings led by supervisors or employees, fostering active engagement?

Reporting and Addressing Unsafe Behaviors

  • Are employees encouraged and empowered to intervene when they observe unsafe behavior by a coworker?

  • Is there a formal process for reporting unsafe behaviors, near misses, and unsafe conditions?

  • Are reports of unsafe behaviors followed up with corrective actions or investigations?

  • Are employees aware of the reporting procedures and have they been trained on how to report safety concerns?

  • Are incidents, accidents, and near misses investigated to identify root causes and corrective actions?

  • Are findings from incident investigations shared with employees to prevent recurrence?

  • Is there a process for tracking corrective actions and ensuring they are implemented?

  • Do workers feel that their concerns about safety are taken seriously and addressed promptly?

  • Are Vector QR codes posted clearly throughout the plant?

Employee Interviews

    Supervisor interview (2-3 interviews)
  • How do you communicate the importance of safety to your team?

  • How often do you discuss safety during meetings?

  • How often do you have one-on-one discussions about safety with your people?

  • Can you give an example of how management or leadership has supported or encouraged safe work behaviors?

  • How do you ensure that safety is prioritized alongside productivity and efficiency goals?

  • Do you feel that safety is part of the overall company culture? Why or why not?

  • What is something you are willing to do to help improve the safety culture?

  • Hourly Employee Interview (3-5 interviews, include 1 maintenance)
  • How do you feel about the importance of safety in your day-to-day tasks?

  • Can you describe how supervisors or upper management promote safety in the workplace?

  • Are safety concerns or feedback from employees taken seriously by your supervisors?

  • How do you feel about the overall safety culture here—do you feel it’s truly a priority?

  • How do you think your co-workers feel about safety on their day-to-day tasks?

  • Do you know your safety coordinator?

  • Do you think there is something that supervisor, management, safety coordinator can do better to promote safety?

  • How do you rate the importance of safety personally? (1 Poor, 10 Extremely Important)

  • How do you rate the way your co-workers thinks about safety? (1 Poor, 10 Extremely Important)

  • How do you rate the way your supervisor thinks about safety? (1 Poor, 10 Extremely Important)

  • How do you rate the way the safety coordinator thinks about safety? (1 Poor, 10 Extremely Important)

  • How do you rate the way upper management thinks about safety? (1 Poor, 10 Extremely Important)

  • How do you rate the way Janus as a whole thinks about safety? (1 Poor, 10 Extremely Important)

  • Additional Comments?

  • Production Manager Interview
  • How do you rate the way supervisors thinks about safety? (1 Poor, 10 Extremely Important)

  • How do you rate the way hourly employees thinks about safety? (1 Poor, 10 Extremely Important)

  • How do you rate the way your safety coordinator thinks about safety? (1 Poor, 10 Extremely Important)

  • How do you rate the way Janus as a whole (corporate) thinks about safety? (1 Poor, 10 Extremely Important)

  • How do you rate the way you think about safety? (1 Poor, 10 Extremely Important)

  • Do communicate the importance of safety to your supervisor teams? How so?

  • Explain

  • Explain

  • Explain

  • What are some things for safety that you may need assistance from corporate to get completed?

  • What is your vision for safety at your plant?

  • Is there anything you would like to see out of your safety coordinator that you are not currently?

  • Additional comments?

The templates available in our Public Library have been created by our customers and employees to help get you started using SafetyCulture's solutions. The templates are intended to be used as hypothetical examples only and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice. You should seek your own professional advice to determine if the use of a template is permissible in your workplace or jurisdiction. You should independently determine whether the template is suitable for your circumstances.