The Initial Certification Audit is conducted to assess whether an organisation’s management system conforms to the requirements of the applicable standard and is effectively implemented. The audit evaluates the organisation’s processes, procedures, controls, and management practices to determine its readiness for certification and its ability to consistently achieve the intended outcomes of the management system.
The Scope
The audit covers all relevant functions, processes, departments, activities, locations, and personnel within the defined scope of the management system. It includes a review of documented information, implementation of policies and procedures, compliance with applicable requirements, operational controls, performance monitoring, and management system effectiveness.
The Frequency
The Initial Certification Audit is conducted once as part of the certification process and is typically carried out in two stages:
Stage 01 . Audit
Review of documented information, management system readiness, and understanding of organisational processes.
Stage 02 . Audit
Evaluation of the implementation and effectiveness of the management system against the applicable standard.
Upon successful completion, certification is granted, followed by periodic surveillance audits and recertification audits in accordance with the certification cycle.