What Is An Audit?
An audit is a useful tool for reviewing processes and determining if they are still effective. By comparing a process against its documented version, audits can identify areas where a change or improvement might be needed. This makes them valuable simulations for change and growth within businesses.
Internal Audit
First Party Audit
As part of the maintenance of their management system, businesses need to confirm that their individual systems and processes are still fit for purpose. These checks are performed on the business's own systems.
If you're struggling to prepare for an external audit, a third-party auditor can visit and carry out your internal audits for you. This is a great solution for smaller businesses
Supplier or Contractor Audit
Second Party Audit
Supplier or contractor audits are important in order to verify that they are adhering to agreed-upon processes and procedures. By auditing their work, you can ensure that they are held accountable and that your organization is getting what it paid for.
Although supplier audits are typically conducted by businesses, it is acceptable for a third party to visit and carry out these audits instead.
External Audit
Third Party Audit
An external audit is a comprehensive review of an organization's management system by a third party. This assesses whether the system meets the requirements of the relevant ISO standard. External audits are vital to ensure impartiality and improve organizational performance.
There are many types of external audits, but the ISO certification audit is the most common.
Stage 1 Audit
The auditor will review your organization's documented information on its management system, evaluate the conditions at the site, and hold discussions with personnel during the Stage 1 ISO audit.
Stage 2 Audit
The purpose of a Certification or Stage 2 Audit is to confirm that the Management System of a business meets all of the requirements of their chosen ISO Standard.
If the assessment is successful, certification is granted.
This initial audit only occurs once for each Standard. Afterward, the business enters the certification cycle.
Surveillance Audit
A Surveillance Audit is an annual onsite review of an organization’s Management System. This forms an important part of the certification cycle, ensuring compliance with the requirements of the standard – as confirmed in the Recertification Audit at the beginning of the next cycle.
A Surveillance Audit usually focuses on a few sections of the Management System each year, aiming to cover the entire system during the certification cycle.
Recertification Audit
A Recertification Audit is an important part of maintaining your ISO certification. It ensures that you are compliant with all relevant ISO standards and that your documented procedures are up-to-date.
This type of audit is in-depth and will examine all aspects of your business.
If you are looking to maintain your certification, you must sit a Recertification Audit as it is a requirement of certified bodies such as QMS.
Safety Audit An Overview
A safety audit is a comprehensive assessment of an organization's safety program and procedures. It is conducted by an independent, third-party auditor who has expertise in safety management. The auditors will review all aspects of the organization's safety program, including policies, procedures, training, and recordkeeping.
They will also observe work activities and interview employees to get a firsthand account of the organization's safety culture. The audit will identify any gaps or opportunities for improvement in the safety program. This information can then be used to develop a plan of action to improve safety at the organization.
Audits can be performed based on a variety of standards, including but not limited to:
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IS 14489
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ISO 45001:2018
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Contractor Safety Management Standard (CSMS)
We Have Categorized Safety Audits Into 3 Different Segments
Statutory Safety Audit
A statutory Safety Audit is an important tool for ensuring a safe workplace. It covers various sections of law and regulation pertaining to safety inspection and establishes the responsibility of managers, supervisors, workers, and contractors with regard to safety. A statutory Safety Audit is a valuable tool for preventing accidents and injuries in the workplace.
Compliance Audit
Compliance audits are a necessary part of ensuring that a company adheres to safety regulations. Safety auditors review a company's safety rules and policies to make sure they meet OSHA standards. If a company fails to comply, it can be fined heavily.
A compliance audit is a safety procedure that audits a company's safety rules and systems to ensure they meet OSHA standards or other safety regulations. This is done by reviewing the company's practices and policies related to safety.
A Compliance safety audit is an important tool for compliance with OH&S standards and regulations. It can help identify potential hazards, assess risks, and develop corrective action plans. Training modules and record keeping practices help ensure workplace safety.
It's important to follow the rules to avoid hefty fines and legal penalties, which can damage an organization's reputation. Companies are careful to comply with rules and regulations, and they regularly audit their procedures to make sure they're following all the necessary guidelines.
Program Audit
Program audits are an essential part of safety practices. By evaluating all employee inputs and program components, we can ensure positive safety outcomes.
Safety program audits are the only way to evaluate a program's design and effectiveness. By understanding the rules and foundations of the program, we can ensure that it is safe and effective.
Management Safety Audit
A management system audit is a combination of a compliance audit and a program audit. The purpose of this audit is to evaluate the current performance of the safety procedure and determine how it aligns with company policy and regulatory norms.
A management system audit can help integrate standard auditing procedures, worker interviews, compliance reviews, and workplace observations. This intertwined system can provide an overall picture of the organization's safety program.
