4.5.5 Internal Audit

The organization shall ensure that internal audits of the OH&S management system are conducted at planned intervals to:

a) determine whether the OH&S management system:

1. conforms to planned arrangements for OH&S management, including the requirements of this OHSAS Standard; and
2. has been properly implemented and is maintained; and
3. is effective in meeting the organization’s policy and objectives;

b)provide information on the results of audits to management.

Audit programme(s) shall be planned, established, implemented and maintained by the organization, based on the results of risk assessments of the organization’s activities, and the results of previous audits.

Audit procedure(s) shall be established, implemented and maintained that address:

1. the responsibilities, competencies, and requirements for planning and conducting audits, reporting results and retaining associated records; and
2. the determination of audit criteria, scope, frequency and methods.

Selection of auditors and conduct of audits shall ensure objectivity and the impartiality of the audit process.

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