How can we help?
Operational Management Solutions can participate in your internal audit program by providing support services that will ensure a rigorous internal audit.
We can conduct an audit together with your team or separately for an integrated management system or separately for a quality, information security, environmental, or occupational health and safety management system.
The audit process
Audit scheduling
Together with you, we will select the month/days for conducting the audit on site or online.
Planning and Preparation
The planning and preparation involves defining the scope, objectives, and criteria of the audit. This includes reviewing relevant documentation, such as quality policies, procedures, and previous audit reports. An audit plan is developed, outlining the schedule, resources needed, and specific areas to be examined.
Opening Meeting
A formal meeting is conducted with relevant personnel to communicate the purpose, scope, and methodology of the audit when necessary. This stage ensures that all participants understand their roles and expectations, fostering transparency and cooperation.
Conducting the Audit
Our auditors systematically gather evidence through interviews, observations, and review of documents and records. They verify compliance with established standards and procedures, identify deviations or nonconformities, and assess the effectiveness of processes.
Documentation of Findings
All observations are documented in a rigorous manner. Findings are categorized based on Classification of audit findings (see below) – opportunities for improvement, minor nonconformities, or major nonconformities.
Closing Meeting
The audit team presents preliminary findings to management and relevant staff. This session provides an opportunity for clarification and acknowledgment of positive practices observed during the audit.
Reporting
A comprehensive audit report is prepared, detailing findings, conclusions, and recommendations. The report serves as an official record and a basis for continuous improvement initiatives.
Follow-up Actions
Post-audit activities include verifying the implementation of corrective actions taken in response to identified nonconformities. Follow-up audits may be scheduled to ensure sustained compliance and effectiveness of corrective measures.
Continuous Improvement
The insights gained from the audit process contribute to ongoing enhancements of the quality management system, fostering a culture of excellence and compliance within your organization.
Classification of audit findings
Classification of findings following internal audit:
| Classification | Definition |
| Positive aspect (PA) | A strength/ good practice observed within the QMS. |
| Opportunity for Improvement (OFI) | An situation where requirements are met, but there is potential for further improvement. Examples: digital transformation of document approval process. |
| Minor Nonconformity (nc) | A single lapse or isolated failure to meet a requirement that does not indicate a systemic breakdown. – a failure in some part of the QMS – a single observed lapse in following one item of a QMS Examples: one record missing, isolated training gap. |
| Major Nonconformity (NC) | A failure to meet a requirement of management system that affects the ability of the system to achieve intended results. – absence or total breakdown of QMS – a number of minor nonconformities against one requirement – a failure that would result in the probable shipment of a nonconforming product – a failure that would result in shipment of a product with a reduced usability – a deviation likely to result in the failure of QMS or to a reduced ability to ensure controlled processes and products Examples: absence of a required process, systemic breakdown, repeated minor nonconformities against one requirement. |
When should you use our services?
Generally, whenever you want to have an objective picture of the effectiveness and efficiency of the management system implemented. In general, you can consider the following aspects:
- the costs of bringing in an auditor from another location are much higher than outsourcing the work to an OMS auditor.
- the number of qualified internal auditors is low and does not allow for an independent audit to be carried out.
- the qualifications of internal auditors do not cover all the requirements of the standards for which the audit must be performed.
- A workshop needs to be organized for internal auditors who have completed an auditor training course – see Auditing management systems according to ISO 19011 based on the courses held in Management systems| Workshop-Training.
Contact
Alexandru TUDOSE
Phone: +40 724 349 179