Really interesting article by IRM published HERE
How do I Demonstrate Conformance to External Auditors without Documents and Records?
5/8/2016
What do I Show the Auditor?
Recently released ISO Management System Standards for Quality (ISO 9001:2015), Environment (ISO 14001:2015) and the draft Occupational Health and Safety (ISO/DIS 45001) (released Feb 2016) reduce the amount of mandatory documentation required to support an effective management system.
In running public courses this change prompts a common question – "if we don’t document a procedure or maintain records, what do I show the external auditor?".
Before we answer this question, let’s revisit some of the basics.
The Basics
As noted in previous blogs, ISO now uses the term "Documented Information" for both documents and records. We have also identified all documented information you are required to "maintain" or "retain" (www.irmsystems.com.au/resources).
Let’s have a look at some of the basics (quotation marks used when quoting ISO documents):
What is a "document"?
ISO defines documentation as the "information created in order for the organization to operate"
And records as "evidence of results achieved".
What format can a document be in?
"any format and media and from any source" (paper, electronic, video, flowchart, photograph etc).
What is a procedure?
"specified way to carry out an activity or a process" (Note: "procedures may be documented or not").
What is the purpose of a documented procedure?
To provide personnel responsible for an activity/ process/ task with guidance on how to perform the task.
Why is ISO reducing the amount of mandatory documentation required?
Today’s quick quiz. ISO writes management standards to enable you to..?