ISO Internal Audit Service

What does the internal audit consist of?

The audits will consist of a combination of document review and remote discussions with appropriate management and staff. Relevant documented information will be reviewed as evidence that the defined processes and procedures are being followed.

After the audit we provide a professionally compiled report that details:

• The agenda and all areas audited within the management system and Statement of Applicability in line with your requested scope
• Evidence examined and audit trail for all areas of the standard included
• Positive findings – the things your organization is doing well
• Nonconformities – areas found to be non-compliant against the requirements of the ISO standard which you can then use to drive continual improvement
• The report can be used by your organization to demonstrate to your external certification body that you are meeting the internal audit requirements of the standard

Who is required at the internal audit?   

Representatives within the scope of activities being audited, plus any other representatives as needed.

How frequently does an organization need an internal audit?

It is a requirement of the standard that an organization defines an audit plan covering a period of time, typically organizations prepare an annual audit schedule showing which functions or areas of the standard are to be audited at a particular time.  Internal audits should be carried out in accordance with the audit schedule.

How much do internal audits cost?  

This is dependent on multiple factors from audit scope to size of the organization and number of sites. Submitting an enquiry and completing our audit booking form is the best way to get a quote specific to your organization.

How long will an internal audit take?

This depends on the scope of the audit and if there are multiple sites, or business functions that fall under that audit scope.  Time also needs to be factored in for evidence gathering, writing the audit report along with any audit findings and nonconformities that may be identified.

How can an internal audit help prepare for the certification audit?

Internal audits are a requirement of the certification audit.  A certification auditor will verify that you are carrying out internal audits to your audit schedule, and are providing the relevant audit evidence (reports and any nonconformities) and that the audit programme is being managed.  Certification bodies will also check that the outputs of audits are being reviewed in your management review meetings to identify areas of weakness or areas for improvement.

What are the additional benefits of an internal audit?

• Confirms the health of your management system, the way it is operating and the efficiency of the business processes i.e. Is it wasting time, effort, and cash on inefficient processes?
• Ensures that your company operations, processes and procedures comply with statutory, regulatory and management system requirements.
• Gives senior management visibility into the effectiveness or weaknesses of the management system as part of the management review requirements.