Remote ICT Auditing
Remote or virtual auditing uses information and communication technology (ICT) to carry out audit activities without requiring everyone to be physically present at the same location.
The original article identifies remote auditing as an accepted audit approach under ISO auditing guidance.
Conditions for Successful Remote Auditing
Remote audits can only be effective when suitable conditions are in place.
The most important considerations are the availability of appropriate technology and the competence and confidence of both the auditors and the organisations being audited in using that technology.
These factors should be evaluated before deciding to conduct an audit remotely. Preparing in advance can help make the auditing process more efficient.
Using Zoom for Remote Auditing
At the time of the original article in May 2020, Zoom was recommended as a suitable video conferencing solution for remote audits.
The software could be obtained from: https://zoom.us/
The original recommendation highlighted Zoom's free one-to-one meeting option and its screen-sharing functionality.
Screen sharing can be particularly useful when reviewing management system documents, audit records and other supporting evidence during a virtual meeting.
Auditors and auditees should become familiar with the software and its features before conducting the audit.
Microsoft Teams and Other Alternatives
Organisations using Microsoft Office 365 may already have access to Microsoft Teams, which provides video conferencing and screen-sharing capabilities.
The original article also identifies several alternative communication methods:
- Skype
- FaceTime on iPhones and iPads
- Facebook Messenger video calls
- WhatsApp video calls
At the time of publication, the article noted limitations with screen sharing on these alternatives.
Such communication tools were nevertheless considered potentially useful for collecting audit evidence remotely, including evidence from construction sites.
Preparing for Remote Internal Audits
Eryri Consulting announced plans to conduct its first remote client audit during the following week.
The proposed process involved collecting evidence virtually, preparing audit reports and sending completed reports together with scanned objective evidence to clients by email.
Audit documentation would be prepared in advance to minimise disruption and reduce downtime during the virtual audit.
Organisations interested in arranging remote internal audits were invited to contact Eryri Consulting for further information and assistance.
COVID-19 and the ISO 45001 Transition
The original article also reported an announcement from the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) relating to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The transition period for organisations moving from OHSAS 18001 certification to ISO 45001 was extended by six months.
The revised transition deadline was 30 September 2021.
This information reflects the historical announcement made in May 2020 and is not a current certification deadline.
Contact Eryri Consulting
If your organisation requires professional support with internal auditing or ISO management systems, please contact Eryri Consulting to discuss your requirements.
What Our Clients Say
Discover what our clients say about working with Eryri Consulting.
"Excellent professionals, very good communication and cooperation. Highly recommended!"
"Glyn was extremely helpful with assisting the company in obtaining the IMS. A quality service from an experienced professional. I would recommend to anyone. Five Big Stars."
"We have received great support from Eryri Consulting in setting up a successful integrated management system and health and safety advice as needed. Glyn always answers e mails in a timely manner, and able to assist in all health and safety, quality and environmental aspects of the business."