Audit Support: Hazardous Materials Audit Services

What are Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Audits?

The Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Audits are comprehensive, formal reviews of a facility’s process, policies, and documentation to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations regarding the safe handling, transportation, and storage of hazardous materials. These audits protect workers, reduce liability, and help organizations maintain safe and responsible operations. The key focus areas include:

1. 1. Inspecting storage areas and chemical inventory
   2. Reviewing Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)
   3. Verifying that employees are properly trained and utilize personal protective equipment (PPE)
   4. Verifying that the documentation meets regulatory compliance requirements

Who Is Subject to Hazardous Materials Audits

HazMat audits may apply to a wide range of companies, which generally include:

• • Commercial motor carriers registered with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
  • Facilities that store, ship, or dispose of hazardous materials or hazardous waste
  • Laboratories, warehouses, and manufacturing plants with regulated chemical inventories
  • Businesses undergoing pre-renovation or demolition projects where hazardous substances may be present

Audits may be triggered by:

• • New entrants – HazMat as part of a safety audit
  • Reported safety violations
  • Potential federal or state compliance checks

Types of Hazardous Materials (HazMat) Audits

The main types of HazMat audits include:

1. 1. DOT/FMCSA Safety Audits
      1. Requiring a HazMat Audit as part of the process
      2. Review of shipping documentation, training records, labeling, and packaging under 49 CFR §171.2(a)
   2. HazMat Inventory Audit
      1. Full review of facility chemical inventory
      2. Classification of materials per GHS (Globally Harmonized System)
      3. Categorization of materials by hazard class
         1. Class 1: Explosives
         2. Class 2: Gases
         3. Class 3: Flammable Liquids
         4. Class 4: Flammable Solids
         5. Class 5: Oxidizing Substances and Organic Peroxides
         6. Class 6: Toxic and Infectious Substances
         7. Class 7: Radioactive Materials
         8. Class 8: Corrosive Substances
         9. Class 9: Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials
   3. Compliance Audits & Management System Audit
      1. Ensure that programs have written policies, contingency plans, and recordkeeping materials that meet 40 CFR Part 172
   4. Other specialized HazMat Audits:
      1. Hazardous Waste Audits
      2. Pre-Renovation/Demolition Hazardous Material Audits
      3. Chemical Handling & Storage Audits
      4. Transportation & Emergency Preparedness Audits

General HazMat Audit Checklist

A typical HazMat audit evaluates:

1. 1. Hazardous Materials Inventory Management
      1. Complete, up-to-date chemical inventory
      2. Proper container labeling and segregation of incompatible materials
      3. Secure storage of compressed gas cylinders
      4. Flammable liquid storage in compliant safety cabinets
      5. Safety Data Sheet (SDS) readily available for each hazardous substance used
   2. Documentation & Training
   3. Emergency Preparedness
      1. Stocked spill kits and posted hazard signage
      2. Clear access to fire extinguishers, eyewash stations, and emergency showers
      3. Up-to-date contingency and emergency response plans
   4. Equipment & Maintenance
      1. Maintenance and inspection records
      2. Completed driver logs and safety inspection reports (DOT/FMCSA Safety Audit)
      3. Safe electrical practices (e.g. no damaged cords, no reliance on extension cords, etc.)
   5. Personal Protection & Workplace Safety
      1. Appropriate PPE used when handling chemical hazards
      2. Food and drinks prohibited in hazardous material storage/handling areas
      3. Workplace kept clean from slip, trip, and fall hazards

Staying Ahead of HazMat Audits

A comprehensive HazMat audit program is essential for protecting workplace safety and preventing violations. Our SEC team can help your facility develop tailored emergency response plans, provide classification services, and in-house training for employees.