What Is an Internal Audit Template?

The purpose of an EHS audit is to find risks so you can make meaningful improvements to procedures, processes, systems, equipment, and more. This is true whether you’re an EHS professional in a chemical processing plant or an office building.

An internal audit template is a standardized document for evaluating the EHS performance and compliance within a facility. It ensures that your team follows the same steps during each audit, making it easier to compare results over time. You might look at hazard communication, PPE, equipment, training records, emergency plans, or any other variable within your EHS program.

Why Use a Template for Audits?

The main reason to use a template for your internal audit is consistency. Using the same document each time means you collect the same data, even if someone new or different performs the audit. Templates help you:

• Stay organized from start to finish
• Capture key findings like process gaps or safety risks
• Meet regulatory requirements by documenting important corrective actions
• Hold teams accountable through action item tracking
• Compare results over time to improve performance

Without a clear structure, your EHS audits may become inconsistent, incomplete, or ineffective. Also, a good template just keeps everyone on the same page.

What To Include and Tips for Use

It’s important to use an internal audit template that’s specific to your operations. The more aligned it is with your processes and goals, the more you’ll get from the findings. Here are some ideas of what you can include:

• Audit details like date, time, location, and the names of the people involved
• Type of internal audit (general, focused, follow-up)
• Applicable regulations or policies (lockout/tagout, hazard communication, etc.)
• Housekeeping and workplace conditions
• Access to safety equipment like fire extinguishers or PPE
• Equipment condition and maintenance records
• Emergency preparedness and spill response
• Hazardous material storage and handling
• Training and certification records

You should also have an area where auditors can add in their notes, including any action items they need to take. Here are some tips for how to improve the quality of your audits:

• Customize your template to your processes, procedures, equipment, policies, and other site-specific variables.
• Use action tracking software to digitize your templates and document everything in a central location.
• Train everyone who completes the audit in the best way to record their observations.
• Create and assign corrective actions following your audit and track whether they resolve the issue during the next audit.

If you need a place to start, download our internal audit template. It’s a one-page Word document that should give you an idea of where to look for improvement opportunities. This includes things like documentation and equipment which may impact safety.