Free WHS Inspection (Chemical Store) Template

Purpose of the Free WHS Inspection (Chemical Store) Template

Managing hazardous chemicals is a critical part of workplace health and safety. A disorganised or poorly maintained chemical store can pose significant risks, including fires, explosions, chemical burns, and long-term health effects.

This Free WHS Inspection (Chemical Store) Template provides a structured starting point for organisations to formalise their inspection process. Regular inspections help systematically identify hazards, assess risks, and verify that control measures are effective and maintained.

Using this template helps a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) meet their primary duty of care by proactively managing the risks associated with chemical storage. It encourages a consistent approach to safety checks, covering key areas such as segregation of incompatible substances, correct labelling, container integrity, ventilation, and emergency preparedness. Integrating this process into your overall safety framework is a key part of building robust WHS management systems.

How to use the Free WHS Inspection (Chemical Store) Template

This template is designed to be straightforward and adaptable. It guides an inspector through a series of checks and prompts them to record findings, note non-conformances, and assign corrective actions with due dates.

To begin, download the template in your preferred format (DOCX or PDF). The DOCX version is fully editable, allowing you to tailor it to your specific workplace.

Walk through the chemical storage area and assess each item on the checklist. For each point, indicate whether it is compliant, non-compliant, or not applicable.

If a hazard or deficiency is identified, provide a detailed description in the comments section and outline the necessary corrective action. Assign responsibility for the action to a specific person and set a realistic completion date.

The completed inspection record should be signed, dated, and filed for future reference and review. These records can be valuable inputs for WHS compliance auditing.

Customising the Inspection Template

It's crucial to remember that this template is a starting point. We recommend you customise it to reflect the specific chemicals, storage systems (e.g., flammable liquids cabinets, bunding, gas cylinder cages), and operational procedures unique to your workplace.

Add or remove checklist items to ensure the inspection is relevant and comprehensive for your operations.

When to use it

The frequency of chemical store inspections should be determined by a risk assessment. As a general guide, inspections should be conducted on a regular schedule, such as weekly or monthly, to ensure ongoing safety. In addition, an inspection is recommended:

• After a near miss, incident, or chemical spill.
• When new hazardous chemicals are introduced to the workplace.
• Following changes to storage layouts or procedures.
• As part of a periodic safety review process.

For specialised storage, such as refrigerated units holding temperature-sensitive chemicals, daily checks may be necessary. You can adapt other specific checklists, like our free pre-start checklist for freezers, to supplement your routine.

Who should use it

Chemical store inspections should be carried out by a person who is competent and has received adequate training on chemical hazards and storage requirements. This may include:

• WHS or Safety Officers
• Store Managers or Supervisors
• Members of the Health and Safety Committee (HSC)
• Designated workers with relevant experience

The person conducting the inspection must be familiar with the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for the chemicals being stored and understand the principles of chemical segregation and safe handling. If your workplace uses mechanical aids like drum lifters, ensure operators are also competent and that equipment is regularly inspected using tools like a free pre-start checklist for an electric hoist. For complex sites, seeking guidance from specialist WHS consulting can help establish a robust inspection program and ensure personnel are adequately trained.

You can find more templates and checklists in our free WHS resources library to support your safety efforts.