Speaker 1: Hello everyone and welcome to today's presentation, we are diving into a crucial aspect of maintaining a robust quality management system, internal auditing for ISO 9001. Internal audits are a key tool for organizations to assess the effectiveness of their quality processes and ensure compliance with ISO 9001 standards. Let's explore the principles and best practices of conducting internal audits. Importance of internal auditing. Why is internal auditing important? Well, it's a proactive approach to assess the health of your quality management system. It helps identify areas for improvement, ensures compliance with ISO 9001 standards and contributes to the overall effectiveness of your organization. Purpose of internal audits. The purpose of internal audits is multifaceted. It's not just about compliance checking, it's an opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of your QMS, identify areas for improvement, verify compliance with ISO 9001 standards, enhance communication and understanding of quality processes within the organization. ISO 9001 Clause 9.2 Internal Audit ISO 9001 in Clause 9.2 explicitly requires organizations to conduct internal audits. This involves systematic, independent, and documented processes for obtaining audit evidence and evaluating it objectively to determine the extent to which the quality management system conforms to planned arrangements. Preparing for internal audits. Now let's talk about preparing for internal audits. This involves several key steps. 1. Define the frequency, scope, and methods of your internal audits. 2. Choose individuals with the necessary competence and impartiality. 3. Clearly outline the criteria against which the audit will be conducted. Conducting the internal audit. 1. Begin with an opening meeting to set the tone and objectives. 2. Collect relevant information and evidence during the audit. 3. Consult with personnel to understand processes and gather insights. 4. Examine documents, records, and procedures to ensure compliance. ISO 9001 Documentation Review A critical aspect of internal audits is the review of documentation. This includes examining documented information against actual practices, verifying that documented procedures align with ISO 9001 requirements, ensuring that records are accurate, complete, and maintained. Non-conformities and corrective actions. In the course of an audit, you may identify non-conformities, instances where processes do not align with ISO 9001 standards. When this happens, clearly record and document non-conformities, identify the root causes behind non-conformities, develop and implement corrective actions to address non-conformities effectively. Closing meeting and report. After the audit activities, conduct a closing meeting to summarize findings, clarify any points of contention, discuss corrective actions, provide recommendations for improvement. Following the meeting, prepare a comprehensive audit report documenting your findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Continuous Improvement Internal audits are not just about meeting compliance, they are a catalyst for continuous improvement. Organizations should use audit findings to drive positive change, refine processes, and elevate the overall effectiveness of the QMS. Let's wrap up with some best practices for internal auditing. Ensure auditors are objective and impartial. Provide training to auditors to enhance their skills. Plan your audit program based on the risks and priorities of your organization. Involve employees at all levels in the audit process to enhance understanding and collaboration. Before we conclude, I am open to any questions or thoughts you may have. Internal auditing is a dynamic process and I am here to address any queries you might have. In conclusion, internal auditing for ISO 9001 is not just a requirement, it's a strategic tool for organizational improvement. By conducting thorough and objective audits, you pave the way for sustained excellence in your quality management practices. Thank you for exploring the world of internal auditing with me today. Thank you.