Preparing for Your RISQS Audit: A Step-by-Step Guide for Rail Contractors

If you’re a rail supplier or contractor, you’ll know that passing your RISQS audit isn’t just a formality, it’s essential for securing contracts, staying compliant, and protecting your reputation.

But let’s be honest: preparing for an audit can feel overwhelming, especially when you’ve got a busy operation to run – That’s where we come in.

At Rorshach, we help rail suppliers get ready for their audits with straightforward, no-nonsense RISQS audit support. Whether it’s your first time going through the process, or you just want things to run more smoothly, this guide will walk you through what to expect, and how to prepare.

What Is the RISQS Audit – and Why Does It Matter?

The Railway Industry Supplier Qualification Scheme (RISQS) is the official supplier assurance scheme for the UK rail industry.

It’s how the industry makes sure that contractors and suppliers meet vital safety, quality, and compliance standards before being trusted to work with organisations like Network Rail.

Getting your RISQS accreditation proves you meet the high standards required, and missing the mark can mean lost contracts, delayed projects, and even reputational damage. That’s why preparing properly is so important.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Ready for Your RISQS Audit

1. Understand the Scope of Your Audit

Every business is different, and so is every audit.
The areas covered during your RISQS audit will depend on:

• The type of work you carry out
• Whether your roles are classed as safety-critical
• The specific RISQS protocols and standards you need to meet

It’s a good idea to get clear early on about:

• Which parts of your business will be reviewed
• What documentation is needed
• Who in your team should be ready to speak with the auditor

2. Book a Pre-Audit Assessment

Think of a pre-audit assessment like a practice run.

At Rorshach, we offer RISQS audit support that helps you find and fix any gaps in your compliance before the real audit day.

We’ll review your policies, check your documentation, and give you practical advice to make sure you're fully ready to meet RISQS protocols, without any last-minute surprises.

3. Review and Refresh Your Documentation

When it comes to audits, your paperwork needs to be up-to-date and genuinely reflective of what’s happening on the ground.

Key areas to review include:

• Health & safety management systems
• Fatigue management plans
• Training and competency records
• Risk assessments and incident reporting processes

At Rorshach, we also provide ISO-certified compliance solutions to ensure your systems are not only audit-ready but genuinely helping your teams work safely and effectively.

4. Get Your Team Prepared

Auditors will often want to speak to employees, especially those working in operational or safety-critical roles.
It’s important that your team understands:

• What the audit is about
• Key compliance procedures
• Their role in maintaining safety and standards

If you need extra support, we offer tailored training sessions to build your team’s knowledge and confidence.

5. Choose the Right Support (Without the Subscriptions)

Unlike some compliance providers, we don’t believe in tying businesses into expensive monthly retainers.

At Rorshach, we keep it simple:

• Flexible, expert RISQS audit support when you need it
• Transparent pricing with no hidden extras
• Practical advice to help you meet RISQS accreditation standards with confidence

Preparing for your RISQS audit doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. With the right preparation, the right support, and a clear plan, you can go into your next audit feeling confident and come out with the RISQS accreditation your business needs to keep growing.

If you’d like some expert help getting ready, we’re here. Contact us to find out more.