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What Makes a Highly Effective ISO 9001:2015 Internal Auditor?

Posted by Oscar Combs in Blog, Home Page 25 Feb 2019

Introduction

An important requirement for any organization’s ISO 9001:2015 quality management system is conducting internal audits, but another important factor is the selection of the internal auditor. What are characteristics a highly effective ISO 9001 internal auditor should possess? This article will cover 4 key traits to consider when selecting an ISO 9001:2015 internal auditor.

1. Competent on the ISO 9001:2015 Standard

It is important that your selected auditor is competent on the standard on which your management system is based on. Undergoing additional training can help prep your internal auditor on the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 quality standard.

2. Knowledgeable on ISO 19011:2018

ISO 19011:2018 is the standard that provides the guidelines for auditing management systems, that has been developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The recently revised ISO 19011 standard applies to all organizations that need to plan and conduct internal and external audits. ISO 19011 should be followed as a guideline, internal auditors from any organization, auditing any standard, should operate to.

3. Maintains Professionalism

A good ISO 9001 auditor will remain professional, ethical and impartial throughout the entire audit process. One way an auditor can ensure they maintain ethical behavior, is by auditing objectively. The internal auditor should document all findings with objective evidence. This will ensure the auditor can support their audit findings, and provide good, constructive audit results to your organization. An auditor should also remain impartial while conducting the audit, and remember they are auditing the process, not the people. If your organization is considering outsourcing your internal audits, having Certified Lead auditors can add to the benefits of your internal audits.

4. Adheres to Audit Scope

Lastly, a good quality ISO 9001 internal auditor will follow the established audit scope to ensure each part of the audit is completed in a timely manner. One tool an internal auditor can use to ensure they stick to the defined audit scope, is an audit checklist. An audit checklist can be used as a guide throughout the audit, and can assist the auditor by making sure all requirements of the standard are covered.

Conclusion

The selection of a highly effective ISO 9001 internal auditor is important to the planning, execution and follow up of your audit. Ensuring your internal auditor is competent on the ISO 9001:2015 standard, has knowledge of ISO 19011, maintains professional behavior and adheres to the audit scope, are major keys to a successful ISO 9001 quality management system audit. For questions on establishing an ISO 9001:2015 internal audit program, training your internal auditors or outsourcing your internal audits, please contact info@iso9001group.com.

 

Author

3 tips for preparing your team to undergo a certification body audit.

Victoria Ontiveros | Project & Office Coordinator 

Victoria earned her BS from Texas A&M University with an emphasis in communications.  She oversees office operations and is the first point of contact for all new and existing clients, which means that she is responsible for ensuring that an excellent level of client service is maintained. She provides marketing and administrative support to ensure that office operations run smoothly and efficiently.  Above all, Victoria is committed to providing the best experience for The ISO 9001 Group’s clients.

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