The various auditing partnerships have been updated for 2023 based on the Bill 47: Ensuring Safety and Cutting Red Tape Act, 2020. The partnerships in reduction standards are reflecting these much needed changes. Essentially this legislative change is amended the Occupational Health and Safety Act, The Radiation Protection Act, and the Worker’s Compensation Act. These changes were in effect in 2021, however, we are now just seeing the trickling effect to the audit standards.
The key changes of the overall audit process include the following:
- Language changes and consistencies throughout the audit process
- Instruction and guideline improvements on how the question is to be scored and delivered. These may include all or nothing, range scoring, or cascade scoring (dependent scoring)
- Clarity for validation of each specific question
So you ask, how does this effect my organization and my COR? The new PIR audit tool will continue to help you identify the key strengths and suggestions for improvement surrounding your health and safety management system. In conjunction, there will be more clear understanding from all parties on the guidelines and structure of the audit questions.
The audit timeline has not been changed, there are still 45 days for data gathering and the auditor has 21 days for reporting writing. It is noted however, that all audit process have now reverted back to the mandatory Documentation, Interview, and Observations process.
Based on the audit instrument updates, it is highly recommended to visit your certifying partners website or reach out directly to them and identify what the specific changes are. This will ensure you will be prepared for your 2023 audit by having a program that reflects these legislative changes and having employees be knowledgeable overall of the changes.
You can always reach out to us at Kasa Consulting and we can help you navigate these audit changes and ensure you are set up for success on your 2023 audit.
Bill 47 Link: 20200225_bill-047.pdf (assembly.ab.ca)