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 eliminating duplication.

Rather than working through three separate checklists and asking overlapping questions about leadership, context, risk and documented information, an integrated checklist merges those shared clauses into a single set of questions and then adds standard-specific items only where the requirements diverge.

What's Included

• Combined clause-by-clause questions covering all three standards
• Colour-coded sections showing which standard each requirement belongs to
• Shared requirements highlighted (common across all three)
• Standard-specific requirements clearly identified
• Compliance/nonconformity/observation columns
• Objective evidence and notes fields
• Corrective action tracking

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 colour-coded sections to confirm that standard-specific requirements are being met alongside the shared clauses. 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
• Significant time and cost savings