Integrated Management System (IMS) Audit Checklist

What is an IMS Checklist?

An IMS checklist is a single, unified audit checklist that covers the requirements of multiple ISO standards simultaneously. Because ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 all share the same High Level Structure (HLS/Annex SL), they can be audited together using one integrated checklist — saving time and reducing duplication.

Our checklist keeps the three standards in separate, clearly labelled sections in one workbook: Quality (ISO 9001, 112 questions), Environment (ISO 14001, 26 questions) and OH&S (ISO 45001, 29 questions). Each section follows the shared Clause 4–10 structure, so you can audit all three in one visit and see where leadership, context, risk and documented information requirements overlap.

What's Included

• 167 clause-by-clause questions in one workbook: ISO 9001 (112), ISO 14001 (26) and ISO 45001 (29)
• Section headings showing which standard each question belongs to
• Each section follows the shared Clause 4–10 structure, so overlapping requirements line up
• Audit result drop-down (Conforms, Opportunity, Minor NC, Major NC, N/A) with automatic scoring
• Objective evidence and notes fields
• Root-cause and action plan columns, plus a dashboard sheet with charts

Standards Covered

How to Use an IMS Checklist

Getting the most from an integrated audit checklist requires a structured approach before, during, and after the audit itself. Following these steps will help you conduct thorough, efficient audits that add genuine value to your management system.

Preparation Steps

Begin by reviewing the audit programme to confirm which processes, departments, or clauses are in scope for this particular audit. Gather relevant documentation such as procedures, previous audit reports, corrective action logs, and any management review minutes. Tailor the checklist by adding organisation-specific questions that reflect your key processes, significant environmental aspects, or high-risk activities. Notify the auditee in advance so they can prepare evidence and make relevant personnel available.

During the Audit

Work through the checklist systematically, but remain flexible enough to follow audit trails where the evidence leads. For each question, record objective evidence that supports your finding, whether that is a document reference, an observation, or a statement from an interviewee. Use the standard-labelled sections to confirm that each standard's requirements are being met. Where you identify a potential nonconformity, gather enough evidence to clearly describe both the requirement and the shortfall.

Recording Findings

Classify each finding as conforming, a minor nonconformity, a major nonconformity, or an opportunity for improvement. Record findings clearly and factually, referencing the specific clause and the evidence obtained. Avoid vague statements and instead describe precisely what was observed, what was expected, and why the gap matters.

Follow-Up Actions

After the audit, issue a formal audit report summarising findings and agreed corrective actions. Assign responsibility and target dates for each action. Track progress in your corrective action system and verify that actions have been implemented effectively before closing findings. Feed the results into management review to ensure senior leadership is aware of system performance and any recurring themes.

Benefits of an Integrated Audit

• Audit all three standards in one visit
• Reduce audit fatigue for staff
• Identify cross-system improvement opportunities
• Consistent approach across all management systems
• Time saved by planning one combined audit