What are the most effective strategies for conducting a QHSE Workplace Safety audit in a virtual environment?

1 Plan ahead

The first step is to plan the audit carefully and communicate your expectations and requirements clearly to the auditee. You need to define the scope, objectives, criteria, and methodology of the audit. You also need to determine the best tools and platforms for conducting the audit, such as video conferencing, screen sharing, document sharing, or online surveys. You should also establish the roles and responsibilities of the audit team and the auditee, and schedule the audit activities in advance.

2 Review documents

The second step is to review the relevant documents and records that provide evidence of the auditee's QHSE performance and compliance. You should request these documents from the auditee before the audit and verify their authenticity, accuracy, and completeness. You should also check for any changes or updates in the auditee's QHSE policies, procedures, and practices since the last audit. You should prepare a checklist of the documents you need to review and the questions you need to ask.

3 Conduct interviews

The third step is to conduct interviews with the auditee's staff, managers, and stakeholders. You should use a video conferencing tool that allows you to see and hear the interviewees clearly and record the session for future reference. You should also prepare an interview guide that covers the topics and questions you want to ask, and use open-ended, probing, and clarifying questions to elicit relevant information. You should also observe the interviewees' body language, tone, and attitude to assess their level of engagement and commitment to QHSE.

4 Observe processes

The fourth step is to observe the auditee's processes and activities that relate to QHSE. You should use a screen sharing tool that allows you to see the auditee's computer or mobile device and watch how they perform their tasks. You should also ask the auditee to show you their work environment, equipment, and materials, and look for any signs of hazards, risks, or non-compliance. You should also compare what you observe with what you learned from the documents and interviews.

5 Evaluate findings

The fifth step is to evaluate your findings and determine whether the auditee meets the audit criteria and objectives. You should analyze the data and evidence you collected and identify any strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, or threats in the auditee's QHSE performance and compliance. You should also classify any non-conformities or deviations according to their severity, impact, and frequency. You should also document your findings and recommendations in a clear, concise, and objective manner.

6 Report results

The sixth and final step is to report your results and feedback to the auditee and the relevant stakeholders. You should present your report in a format and language that is easy to understand and follow. You should also highlight the main findings, conclusions, and recommendations, and explain the rationale and evidence behind them. You should also discuss any corrective or preventive actions that the auditee needs to take and agree on a timeline and follow-up plan. You should also solicit the auditee's feedback and comments on the audit process and outcome.