SafetyMAP:Auditing Health & Safety ... - WorkSafe Victoria

PART 2: AUDIT CRITERIAElement 1: Health and safety policyThe health and safety policy is an importantpart of the organization's health and safetymanagement system. The policy is a generalplan of intent and objectives deliberatelychosen by top management which guides orinfluences future decisions. The policy is thebasis upon which measurable health andsafety objectives and targets and health andsafety management system components aredeveloped. The policy should be consistentwith the nature and scale of workplace risks.The policy should be known by employeesand interested parties. The policy should beperiodically reviewed and revised to reflectchanging conditions and information. Itsscope should be clearly identifiable.The policy should be signed or endorsed bytop management of the site as anindication of their commitment to healthand safety. Top management may consist ofan individual, or a group of individuals, withexecutive responsibility for the organization.1.1.1 There is a documented health and safetypolicy, authorized by the organization’s topmanagement that:a) requires compliance with relevanthealth and safety legislation;b) is appropriate to the nature andscale of the organization’s health andsafety risks;c) states overall health and safetyobjectives; andd) demonstrates a commitment to thecontinued improvement of health andsafety performance.1.1.2 The health and safety policy is availableto other parties, including regulatoryauthorities, suppliers, contractors,customers and those visiting the workplace.1.1.3 The health and safety policy is maintainedand reviewed periodically to ensure itremains relevant and appropriate to theorganization’s health and safety risks.14PART 2: AUDIT CRITERIA