No evidence of verification
The single most common finding. Controls are specified, work is being done correctly, and there is no record that anyone checked. The site may be well run and still unable to show it.
Documents in use are not the current revision
Usually discovered by comparing a site copy to the register. Often harmless on the day, and consistently serious when something is examined afterwards.
Competency records incomplete or expired
Tickets not held, expiry not tracked, or a register that does not match who is actually on site. Frequently found on plant operation and high-risk licences.
Subcontractor documentation has drifted
Collected at pre-qualification, never refreshed. The audit finds a SWMS for a method no longer in use, or for a crew that has entirely changed.
Corrective actions raised but not closed
Previous audit findings are still open, with no owner or no date. This compounds: the second audit finds the first audit.
Plant inspection gaps on hired or subcontractor plant
Owned plant is well managed, hired and subcontractor plant is assumed to be somebody else problem. Exposure does not follow ownership.
Risk assessments not reviewed after change
A change in scope, sequence or conditions occurred and the documents still describe the original plan. The documents are correct for a job that finished.
What to do with a finding list
Rank by exposure, not by how quickly it can be closed. Closing eight easy findings and leaving the critical one open produces an impressive report and no change in risk.
Common questions
What is a non-conformance in a construction audit?
A point where what is happening does not match what the system, a standard or a legal duty requires. Severity depends on the exposure it creates, not on how it reads.
How should audit findings be prioritised?
By the exposure they carry. A finding that could contribute to serious harm outranks a dozen administrative gaps, however untidy those look.
Where we work. Standard service area: Gold Coast, Logan, Brisbane, Moreton Bay and Sunshine Coast. Outside this area, contact Obras for availability and a tailored quote — additional travel and site attendance costs may apply.
General information only. This guide describes common construction practice. It is not legal advice and it is not a substitute for the WHS legislation applying in your jurisdiction, which differs between states and territories. Obras does not certify or guarantee compliance — nobody honestly can. Your officers keep every duty under the WHS Act.