Quick answer: SafeWork Inspectors can enter any workplace without prior notice under the WHS Act. They can inspect documents, photograph the site, and interview workers. The best way to handle a visit is to have your WHS documentation in order before they arrive.
Last reviewed: March 2026 by the BlueSafe Technical Team. Reflects current Model WHS Regulations.
A visit from a SafeWork Inspector (or WorkSafe in some states) can be stressful, but it is a normal part of operating a business in a high-risk industry. Inspectors have broad powers to enter workplaces to monitor compliance, investigate incidents, or resolve disputes.
Being prepared and knowing how to handle the visit can make the difference between a routine check and a costly fine.
Inspector Powers: Right of Entry
Under the WHS Act, inspectors can enter any workplace without prior notice.
- They can inspect and examine anything at the workplace.
- They can take measurements, photos, and samples.
- They can conduct interviews with workers.
- They can request to see documents (SWMS, licences, training records).
Do not obstruct them. Hindering an inspector is a serious offence. Be polite, professional, and cooperative.
What to Do When They Arrive
- Verify Identity: Ask to see their identification card.
- Notify Management: Inform the Site Supervisor or Manager immediately.
- Accompaniment: You have the right to accompany the inspector during their tour of the site (unless they are interviewing a worker in private).
- Take Notes: Record what they look at, what they ask, and any comments they make. If they take a photo, you should take the same photo.
The "WHS Folder"
The first thing an inspector will usually ask for is your safety documentation. Having a tidy, organised "WHS Folder" (or digital system) ready to go creates an immediate impression of competence.
You should be able to quickly produce:
- Workers Compensation Insurance.
- SWMS for current high-risk work.
- Site Induction Register.
- Toolbox Talk records.
- Plant and equipment maintenance logs.
- Incident register.
If you fumble, panic, or say "I'll have to find it," the inspector will dig deeper.
Outcomes of a Visit
- Clean Bill of Health: No issues found.
- Improvement Notice: A written direction to fix a specific issue by a certain date. You can usually continue working, but you must fix the problem.
- Prohibition Notice: Issued for an immediate, serious risk. Work must stop immediately in the affected area until the hazard is fixed.
- Penalty Notice: On-the-spot fine for specific breaches.
State and Territory Variations
The information on this page is based on the Model WHS Regulations published by Safe Work Australia, which have been adopted (with minor variations) by most states and territories.
| Jurisdiction | WHS regulator | Key notes |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | SafeWork NSW | Adopted Model WHS Regulations |
| VIC | WorkSafe Victoria | Uses OHS Act 2004 — inspector powers similar but legislation differs |
| QLD | Workplace Health and Safety Queensland | Adopted Model WHS Regulations |
| SA | SafeWork SA | Adopted Model WHS Regulations |
| WA | WorkSafe Western Australia | Adopted Model WHS Regulations (2022) |
| TAS | WorkSafe Tasmania | Adopted Model WHS Regulations |
| ACT | WorkSafe ACT | Adopted Model WHS Regulations |
| NT | NT WorkSafe | Adopted Model WHS Regulations |
Always verify current requirements with your state regulator, as notice and documentation requirements may vary.
Related guides
- Notifiable Incidents: What Must Be Reported to SafeWork
- How to Write a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS)
- WHS Policies vs Procedures: What's the Difference?
- Site Inductions: What Must Be Covered?
Frequently asked questions
Can a SafeWork Inspector enter my workplace without notice?
Yes. Inspectors have the right to enter any workplace at any time without prior notice under the WHS Act. Obstructing an inspector is a serious offence.
What documents will a SafeWork Inspector ask to see?
They typically request Workers Compensation Insurance, SWMS for current high-risk work, the Site Induction Register, Toolbox Talk records, plant maintenance logs, and the incident register.
What is an Improvement Notice?
A written direction to fix a specific WHS issue by a set date. Work can usually continue, but you must address the issue by the deadline. Non-compliance is a separate offence.
What is a Prohibition Notice?
A Prohibition Notice is issued for an immediate, serious risk. Work in the affected area must stop immediately and cannot resume until the hazard is rectified.
How to be inspection-ready before they arrive
The best way to handle an inspector visit is to be compliant before they arrive. A comprehensive WHS Management System ensures you have all the required policies, procedures, and records in place, giving you the confidence to welcome an inspector onto your site.
Want to be inspection-ready? Explore WHS management systems.