Overview
An internal audit checks whether agreed processes and requirements are being implemented and are effective. ADLER CertConsulting can take on the audit programme, preparation, conduct, report and action tracking, or support internal auditors. The management review brings together the key results for management. Both serve the company’s own control and are clearly separated from the independent certification audit.
Internal audit: checking what really works in the business
An internal audit should do more than serve as a checklist before the certification appointment. It shows whether processes are understood, records are reliable and agreed actions actually take effect.
ADLER CertConsulting supports the planning, conduct and follow-up of internal audits. Audit objectives and samples are matched to processes, risks, changes and earlier results.
Clear findings and workable actions
After the audit, you receive a clear, traceable report. Findings are discussed with the responsible people. Together, it can then be clarified what the cause is, which immediate correction is needed and which action should prevent a recurrence.
Preparing the management review
The management review brings together the information that management needs for decisions about the management system. We help to compile the inputs in a structured way and to prepare or facilitate the meeting. The decisions themselves are made by top management.
A clear separation from the certification audit
An internal audit is part of the company’s own control. It ensures that records can be found, that responsible people know their topics and that open points do not first become visible at the external appointment. The certification audit, by contrast, is carried out by an independent certification body. A good internal audit creates transparency and a calmer audit situation, but does not guarantee any particular external audit decision.
Fields of service
- risk-based audit programme
- preparation of the audit plan and audit criteria
- conduct of process-related or system-related internal audits
- audit interviews, sampling and review of records
- an understandable audit report with findings
- facilitation of root-cause analysis and action planning
- preparation and facilitation of the management review
- support and development of internal auditors
Frequently asked questions
Can an external consultant carry out the internal audit?
Yes, provided that competence, audit scope and impartiality are appropriately arranged. The externally conducted internal audit remains a review on behalf of the company and is not a certification audit.
What is examined in an internal audit?
Defined processes and requirements, their actual implementation and their effectiveness are examined. Interviews, observations, documents and records serve as samples for this.
What is the difference from the certification audit?
The internal audit supports the company’s own evaluation and improvement. The certification audit is an independent third-party assessment. Only the certification body decides on the certificate.
Who carries out the management review?
Responsibility lies with top management. ADLER CertConsulting can prepare information, facilitate the meeting and document decisions, but cannot carry out the review or make the decisions in place of management.