An FSC (Federal Safety Commissioner) Accreditation is a rigorous process undertaken by the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner (OFSC) that requires meticulous detail to meet and enforce high safety standards in the building and construction industries. Conducting an FSC Audit is a vital component for businesses that want to achieve and maintain certification under the WHS Accreditation Scheme.
What is the process of an FSC Audit?
An FSC Audit is a multi-stage process that involves completing an application that is followed by an onsite audit.
Step 1
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Step one of the FSC audit accreditation process involves submitting an application that includes:
- Information about the company
- Project details of site locations
- A system map which includes details on where the business meets each point of the audit criteria
If the application meets the audit criteria and is successful, the company will then proceed to an onsite audit.
Step 2
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Once the first step has been completed, an FSO (Federal Safety Officer) will verify that business’s WHS Management system. An audit will usually be conducted over the span of multiple days. The OFSC will then provide the organisation with an audit notification letter and details of the criteria that is being reviewed during the audit. A system audit will first be conducted and will be followed by a stage two audit if any issues arise. If this is successful, they will then proceed to a worksite audit where they will verify the businesses implementation and risk management. Along with this, a discussion will take place between the nominated FSO, senior management representatives and any other relevant site personnel.
Stage 3
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If a business is successful in stage 1 and 2 of the application process, the FSCO will hold a closed meeting of any key issues that may have identified.
Benefits of the FSC Audit
There are several benefits to conducting an FSC Audit. They include:
- Assisting your organisation in meeting regulatory requirements
- Improving site safety and performance
- Lowering workers’ compensation premiums and lost time injuries
- Opportunity to tender for Commonwealth funded construction projects
- Recognised as having best practice workplace health and safety systems and practices implemented
FSC Audit ServicesÂ
At Recovery Partners, we provide comprehensive support to businesses throughout the entire accreditation process, from start to finish. This includes:
- Expert advice and assistance with scheme application
- Onsite audits and inspections
- Gap analysis
- WHS System adjustment
- Audit preparation, coordination and support
- System fixes and management of reporting systems and requirements
- Re-accreditation support
We maintain workplace safety and health with the assistance of our WHSMS FSC Audit Criteria Checklist.
Want to find out more?
Our services are available nationwide. For more information about our services contact us.
Our consultants love to have a chat, so go ahead and give us a call on 1300 OHS RTW (647 789) or email enquiries@rrp.com.au
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Disclaimer – these articles are provided to supply general safety information to people responsible for OHS in their organisation. They are general in nature and do not substitute for legal and/or professional advice. We always suggest that organisations obtain information specific to their needs. Additional information can be found at https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/Â