Download this resource
Available in the following formats:
What This Checklist Is
This checklist is a practical self-review tool designed to help businesses understand and reflect on how they manage work health and safety risks. It is commonly used during internal reviews, planning sessions, or improvement discussions where clarity is needed. The checklist is intended for business owners, managers, and supervisors who want a straightforward way to sense-check their current practices.
It is not a compliance test and it does not provide legal advice.
How This Checklist Relates to the Code of Practice
A WHS Code of Practice describes accepted ways of managing workplace risks in Australia. This checklist mirrors the main ideas and expectations found in the Code, using simple, work-focused questions rather than technical language. Each "Yes" or "No" answer helps highlight where current practices appear sound and where they may be weak or incomplete.
The aim is to support understanding and reflection, not to judge or certify performance.
Why Use a Code of Practice Checklist?
Using a checklist like this helps turn broad guidance into something easier to review and discuss. It can clarify what "good practice" looks like in everyday work, rather than in theory. Businesses often use it to spot early gaps in hazard identification, risk assessment, or risk control before issues escalate.
It also supports clearer conversations with workers, advisors, or inspectors by focusing on real actions and decisions.
Key Features
Simple Yes / No checklist format
Written in plain English
Designed for Australian WHS Codes of Practice
Suitable for small and medium businesses
How to Use This Checklist
Work through each question honestly, based on what actually happens in your workplace rather than what is intended to happen. The value of the checklist comes from realistic answers, not from trying to achieve a perfect result.
Treat any "No" response as a prompt for further thought or action. Use the results to prioritise practical improvements and revisit the checklist when work activities, hazards, or risks change.
What Inspectors Commonly Expect to See
Inspectors generally focus on how risks are identified and managed in day-to-day work, not just on written systems. They look for evidence that hazards are recognised, risks are assessed, and controls are put in place and reviewed. Tools like this checklist help demonstrate that decisions are informed and considered, rather than reactive.
Understanding and follow-through usually matter more than the volume of paperwork. Inspectors are often interested in whether issues are noticed early and addressed in a timely way. For more on what a structured safety management system looks like, see our system overview.
Notes or action lists from checklist reviews
Changes made to risk controls or work practices
Records showing issues were identified and addressed
FAQs
Is this checklist mandatory to use?
No. The checklist is optional and designed as a support tool. It helps businesses review their approach to managing WHS risks, but it is not a requirement and does not replace other safety processes you may already use.
Does a completed checklist mean we are compliant?
No. Completing the checklist does not guarantee compliance. It is a way to reflect on current practices and identify possible gaps, not a formal assessment or certification.
Who should complete the checklist?
It is usually completed by owners, managers, or supervisors who understand how work is actually carried out. Involving workers can also improve accuracy and usefulness.
How often should we use the checklist?
Many businesses use it during periodic reviews or when work changes. It is also useful after incidents, near misses, or when introducing new tasks or equipment.
Articles and Further Reading
Regulation s34–s35 – Managing Risks to Health and Safety – Sets out the primary obligation to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement appropriate control measures so far as is reasonably practicable.
How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks – Provides practical guidance on hazard identification, risk assessment, risk control, and review processes under the Model WHS framework.
About the Author
About the Author
Nathan Owen
Nathan has worked in construction for 15 years, primarily in health and safety and site management. He has frontline experience including operating plant and machinery and post-graduate qualifications in health and safety.