Whether you’re working in construction, oil & gas, manufacturing, or infrastructure, Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) protocols are non-negotiable. But how can you ensure your workplace consistently follows safety standards?

That’s where safety audit checklists come in — they’re the frontline tool for proactive risk identification and compliance.

In this article, we’ll walk through 10 essential checklists that every HSE officer should have in their toolkit, plus offer a downloadable template you can start using right away.

✅ 1. Site Safety Inspection Checklist

Use this daily or weekly. Covers:

  • PPE compliance
  • Housekeeping standards
  • Signage and barricading
  • Emergency exits and access routes

🔌 2. Electrical Safety Checklist

To ensure safe handling of electrical equipment:

  • Cables and wiring are undamaged
  • Earth leakage protection is working
  • Lockout/Tagout procedures are followed
  • No overloaded circuits

🧯 3. Fire Safety Checklist

Includes:

  • Fire extinguishers charged and labeled
  • Fire alarms tested monthly
  • Escape routes and assembly points marked
  • Fire drills conducted quarterly

🛠 4. Tool and Equipment Safety Checklist

Regular checks for:

  • Proper guarding and condition
  • Calibration and certification
  • Operator licenses (if needed)
  • Maintenance logs updated

🧪 5. Chemical Safety Checklist

Critical for labs or industrial settings:

  • MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets) availability
  • Proper labeling and storage
  • PPE compliance during handling
  • Spill response equipment availability

🧍 6. Working at Height Checklist

Especially vital in construction:

  • Scaffolding inspection
  • Harness condition and use
  • Fall protection systems installed
  • Permit to work issued

🚧 7. Permit to Work (PTW) Compliance Audit

Ensures permits are:

  • Filled properly
  • Authorized by competent person
  • Time-bound and site-specific
  • Accompanied by JSA (Job Safety Analysis)

🚜 8. Vehicle and Machinery Safety Checklist

Used for forklifts, cranes, and mobile equipment:

  • Pre-use inspection logs
  • Reversing alarms functional
  • Seat belts in good condition
  • Maintenance logs available

🧑‍🔬 9. PPE Compliance Checklist

  • Are workers wearing the right gear?
  • Is PPE available, clean, and functional?
  • Are PPE training records maintained?

📄 10. Incident Reporting and Investigation Checklist

Ensure your team is:

  • Logging near-misses and actual incidents
  • Investigating root causes
  • Taking corrective actions
  • Tracking follow-ups

📥 Download: Free Excel Template

[Click here to download your free HSE Safety Audit Checklist Excel file]

🧠 Final Thoughts

A good HSE officer doesn’t just respond to incidents — they prevent them. These checklists are simple but powerful tools for cultivating a culture of safety.

Stay consistent, keep documentation, and update your audits based on site conditions and lessons learned.