How To Prepare For A Health & Safety Inspection: PPE Checklist

Health and safety inspections aren’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about making sure your people are safe at all times.  

Every year, thousands of UK workplaces are inspected by the HSE.

Failing an inspection can have serious consequences:

• Fines and penalties
• Reputational damage
• Downtime and disruption
• Increased risk to employees

When inspectors arrive, they’re checking that your workplace is safe, your processes are compliant, and your team is properly equipped.

Preparation is the best defence. By getting your PPE and records in order, you’ll not only be ready for HSE workplace inspections but also build a safer, more resilient workforce day in, day out. 

Why Preparing for HSE Inspections Matters

Planning gives your team the tools, records, and confidence to demonstrate compliance every time an inspector walks through the door.

Key reasons to plan:

• Role of PPE - inspectors check that staff have the right kit, in good condition, and properly issued.
• Frequency of inspections - HSE inspections can be unannounced, especially in high-risk industries.
• Documentation requirements - PPE logs, training records, and assessment forms are always reviewed.

Failing to prepare can cost time, money, and safety. Doing it right protects people and supports HSE workplace compliance.

PPE Audit Checklist for Inspections

A structured PPE audit ensures nothing is overlooked.

Breaking the process into steps makes it easier to stay compliant, as well as showing inspectors that your safety systems are well managed.

STEP 1 - CARRY OUT A PPE RISK ASSESSMENT

Start with a hazard review:

• Identify risks - chemical, physical, biological, or noise hazards
• Record findings - use a PPE assessment form to document needs
• Plan ahead - update assessments regularly and before inspections

STEP 2 - ENSURE PPE AVAILABILITY

Check that the right kit is available for every role:

• Stock core items - helmets, safety boots, gloves, and hi-vis clothing
• Use the MY-SMI® portal - track orders, manage stock, and reorder automatically
• Cover specialist needs - chemical-resistant gloves, respiratory protection, or thermal PPE

STEP 3 - CHECK PPE CONDITION

Inspect what you already have in circulation:

• Look for damage - cracks, tears, or broken straps
• Use a PPE inspection checklist - keep evidence ready for inspectors
• Check expiry dates - especially for helmets, respiratory equipment, and other critical equipment

STEP 4 - CONFIRM FIT AND INCLUSIVITY 

Ensure that every employee has gear that fits properly:

• Size check - across work trousers, jackets, and coveralls
• Comfort counts - a poor fit often leads to PPE being ignored
• Inclusive options - provide women’s PPE and a full range of sizes

STEP 5 - REVIEW TRAINING AND RECORDS

Inspectors want proof that staff know how to use PPE:

• Keep records - written logs of training dates and attendees
• Update regularly - refresh staff knowledge when new PPE is introduced
• Provide training - correct use of hearing protection, eye protection, and more

Types of PPE to Review Before Inspections

Before an inspection, it’s worth reviewing each PPE category to ensure that equipment is safe, compliant, and properly maintained. 

Inspectors often check that every protection area, from head to toe, is covered and correctly documented.

HEAD PROTECTION

Check helmets and bump caps for cracks, dents, and expiry dates.

EYE AND FACE PROTECTION

Inspect goggles, safety glasses, and face shields for scratches and a secure fit.

HEARING PROTECTION

Inspect ear defenders and plugs for wear and hygiene.

HAND PROTECTION

Ensure gloves, whether cut-resistant, chemical-resistant, or for thermal prevention, are available in the correct sizes and in good condition.

BODY PROTECTION

Review hi-vis clothing, jackets, and coveralls for compliance with EN standards.

FOOT PROTECTION

Ensure safety boots and anti-slip footwear are fit for purpose and replaced regularly

TOP TIP: Store PPE in clean, dry, labelled areas and conduct regular audits to stay inspection-ready.

How SMI Helps You Stay Inspection-Ready

Managing PPE, records, and training across multiple sites can be time-consuming.

That’s where SMI comes in. 

We make compliance simpler, smarter, and more sustainable with solutions that take the pressure off your safety teams.

Here's how:

• Recycling schemes - sustainable end-of-life options for PPE
• Expert advice - support with site audits, training, and compliance
• With SMI, you don’t just buy PPE - you get a partner in workplace safety
• Single source - all PPE, workwear and equipment from one trusted supplier
• MY-SMI® - our portal to manage stock control, usage tracking, and audit-ready reports
  

With SMI, you don't just buy PPE and equipment, you get a partner in workplace safety.

FAQs

What inspection should you do on PPE?

Carry out regular visual inspections for wear, damage, and expiry. Check fit for each user, and document results with a PPE checklist.

What is a PPE checklist?

It’s a tool to track PPE availability, condition, training, and compliance. SMI provides easy-to-use audit checklists to keep you inspection-ready.

What are the 5-point PPE requirements?

Head, eyes, ears, hands, feet. These cover the essential protection areas inspectors always look for.