How many recent PSM audits do employers need to retain?

How many recent PSM audits do employers need to retain?

• A. The three most recent
• B. The two most recent
• C. The most recent
• D. The five most recent

Answer: (B)

Retaining audit records creates a traceable history of how the process safety program is reviewed and improved over time. In the PSM standard, audits are required at least every three years, and the employer must keep a written audit report along with the date of the next audit. The rule calls for retaining the two most recent audit reports. Having these two on file lets you compare the current findings with what was identified in the previous audit, verify that corrective actions were completed, and spot any ongoing trends or gaps across audit cycles. Keeping more than two isn’t required by the standard, and keeping only the most recent one would remove important historical context needed to confirm follow-through on past actions.

Retaining audit records creates a traceable history of how the process safety program is reviewed and improved over time. In the PSM standard, audits are required at least every three years, and the employer must keep a written audit report along with the date of the next audit. The rule calls for retaining the two most recent audit reports. Having these two on file lets you compare the current findings with what was identified in the previous audit, verify that corrective actions were completed, and spot any ongoing trends or gaps across audit cycles. Keeping more than two isn’t required by the standard, and keeping only the most recent one would remove important historical context needed to confirm follow-through on past actions.