Driving Compliance and Safety Excellence
Safety Management System Audit is more than a compliance requirement, it’s the backbone of safe, reliable, and efficient operations. At Safety Solutions, we conduct comprehensive Safety Management System audits that go beyond box-ticking. Our audits measure your SMS against international standards such as ISO 45001 and best-practice process safety frameworks, while also identifying opportunities to lift overall safety performance.
Why Many Safety Management Systems Fall Short?
Even the most well-intentioned SMS can develop gaps over time. Without regular, independent evaluation, organisations risk:
- Regulatory breaches – Non-compliance with standards like ISO 45001 can result in fines, legal action, or reputational damage.
- Safety incidents – Undetected weaknesses in hazard controls can lead to preventable injuries, environmental harm, or even fatalities.
- Missed improvement opportunities – Without a clear performance baseline, continuous improvement efforts stall.
Our SMS Audit Approach – Structured, Detailed, Actionable
Our SMS audit methodology is built around 10–15 key elements designed to improve and measure the performance of safety management across your business. This structured approach provides a robust mechanism for leadership teams and boards to demonstrate due diligence, regulatory compliance, and commitment to safety excellence.
Typical elements assessed in an SMS audit can include:
- Policy & Leadership – Are safety policies aligned with corporate objectives and industry standards?
- Communication & Engagement – Are critical safety messages reaching the right people at the right time?
- Organisation & Resources – Is the structure, staffing, and budget adequate to support safety outcomes?
- Competence & Training – Do employees have the right skills to fulfil their SMS responsibilities?
- Contractor Management – Are contractor activities fully integrated into your safety system?
- Major Hazard Controls – Are the most serious risks effectively identified, controlled, and monitored?
- Operations & Maintenance – Are daily practices aligned with SMS requirements?
- Safety Critical Elements – Are the systems and components essential to safety being maintained at standard?
- Change Management – Are operational changes assessed for safety impacts before implementation?
- Emergency Preparedness – Are plans in place, tested, and understood by those who need them?
- Performance Monitoring – Are KPIs and leading indicators tracked, reviewed, and acted upon?
- Incident Management – Are investigations thorough, root causes addressed, and lessons shared?
- Audit & Review – Is there a robust cycle for reviewing, improving, and re-auditing the SMS?
Consultant-Led, Evidence-Based Insights
Our audits combine:
- On-site engagement – Interviews with staff and leadership, workplace observations, and document reviews.
- Best-practice tools – Industry-standard checklists, maturity models, and gap-analysis methods.
- Clear reporting – Prioritised recommendations so you know exactly where to focus resources.
What You’ll Receive from a Safety Management System Audit
At the conclusion of your audit, you’ll receive:
- SMS Report Card – Benchmark performance against standards and best practice.
- Maturity Assessment – Position your SMS on a recognised safety maturity scale.
- Gap & Risk Analysis – Identify weaknesses and associated process safety risks.
- Action Plan – Practical, prioritised recommendations for improvement.
- Executive Briefing – A concise presentation for decision-makers.
Why Partner with Safety Solutions for SMS Audits?
- Proven Expertise – Our consultants have developed, audited, and improved SMS frameworks across industries from oil & gas to manufacturing and infrastructure.
- Practical Focus – We combine compliance checks with operational reality, ensuring improvements are achievable.
Don’t wait for a compliance breach or a safety incident to reveal the gaps in your system. Let’s discuss how we can help you strengthen your Safety Management System, meet regulatory obligations, and drive lasting safety excellence. CONTACT US TODAY to schedule your SMS audit or learn more about our tailored safety consulting services.