How to store inspection records for compliance

Published on
September 26, 2025

If your business depends on safety equipment, inspections aren’t optional - they’re required by law. Regulations such as LOLER, OHSA or WHS demand not only that inspections are carried out, but also that accurate inspection records are kept and stored securely.

But how should you store these records to stay compliant and audit-ready? Let’s break it down.

Why storing inspection records matters

Inspection records are more than paperwork — they are the evidence that your organisation has met its legal obligations. Without a clear system for storage, you risk:

  • Lost or incomplete records that leave you exposed during audits
  • Non-compliance fines or failed inspections from regulators
  • Increased downtime if equipment histories can’t be quickly verified
  • Unsafe equipment in circulation because inspection dates are unclear

The best solution is a compliance management software that centralises inspection data - making inspection statuses and reports easily accessible - automates reminders when inspections are due, and provides a permanent audit trail.

Traditional vs digital record storage

Traditionally, companies have used paper logs or spreadsheets to track inspections. While simple, these methods are:

  • Hard to maintain
  • Prone to error
  • Difficult to share during audits
  • Easy to lose

By contrast, a digital compliance management system ensures records are:

  • Centralised - all inspections stored in one place
  • Searchable - instantly find the record you need
  • Secure - backed up in the cloud with access controls
  • Audit-ready - exportable at the click of a button

What to look for in a compliance tracking platform

A strong compliance tracking system should provide:

  1. Digital Compliance Checklists
    Replace paper forms with custom inspection checklists
  2. Automated Compliance Workflows
    Ensure inspections happen on time with scheduled reminders and assignments.
  3. Audit Trails
    Keep an uneditable history of every inspection, repair, or equipment update.
  4. NFC Mobile Scanning
    Use phones or tags to instantly pull up inspection history and update records. 
  5. Reporting Features
    Generate compliance summaries, overdue lists, or full inspection histories in seconds.

Learn more in our blog "Compliance Tracking Software & Checklists: Everything You Need to Know".

Best practices for storing inspection records

To stay compliant and efficient:

  • Use a central platform instead of scattered spreadsheets
  • Standardise checklists across teams with compliance templates
  • Tag your equipment with durable NFC solutions to link physical gear to digital records
  • Maintain full audit trails so regulators can see inspection history without gaps
  • Review regularly to ensure records are accurate and up to date

Frequently asked questions about storing inspection records

1. Where should inspection records be stored?
Inspection records should be stored in a secure, centralised system that allows quick access and protects against data loss. A compliance management software is the best choice, as it creates permanent audit trails and makes records easily searchable.

2. How long should LOLER inspection records be kept?
See our blog “How do I Manage Compliance and Inspection Reports in One Place” for a breakdown on record keeping requirements across geographies and regulations. 

3. Can digital compliance checklists replace paper inspection forms?
Yes. Digital compliance checklists are accepted. A compliance tracking system ensures records are stored with full audit trails to meet regulatory standards.

4. What tools can help with digital inspection record storage?
Modern platforms include compliance tracking software, NFC and mobile scanning apps. These allow you to link physical safety equipment to its digital record, making it easier to prove compliance during inspections.

How Scannable simplifies compliance record storage

Scannable’s software provides compliance tracking tools purpose-built for safety equipment. It helps you store inspection records digitally with ease by offering:

  • Less manual data entry - scan any brand of safety equipment with your phone
  • Largest pre-loaded database - 60,000+ pieces of gear already in the system
  • Built-in inspection checklists
  • Automated inspection reminders 
  • Full audit trails that are instantly exportable
  • Rugged tagging options - NFC tags designed for real-world use

With Scannable, your inspection records aren’t just stored - they’re organised, searchable, and always audit-ready.

Final thoughts

Storing inspection records for compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. By moving away from spreadsheets and into a compliance management platform like Scannable, you can ensure every inspection is recorded, stored securely, and ready for review.

Book a demo today to see how easy it is to manage and store your inspection records with Scannable.