Pre-Assessment Audit Blog
Is a Pre-Assessment Audit Right For You?
If you are seeking your initial GFSI benchmarked certification and aren’t sure if you are ready, a pre-assessment audit is a great tool to verify your readiness.
What is a pre-assessment?
A pre-assessment can be thought of as a “practice audit”. It will provide an expanded review of your facility’s program and procedures as they relate to the audit scheme. Our qualified auditors assess the performance of key food safety measures in your operating processes. Non-conformances are identified, and your site uses this information to identify corrective actions prior to the certification audit.
What are the benefits of a pre-assessment?
A pre-assessment will satisfy the requirements for a full internal audit for SQF, BRC, FSSC 22000, or FAMI-QS. A third party pre-assessment can be preferred vs. an internal preparatory audit because the team is able to remain more focused. The auditor and auditee stand a greater chance of not becoming sidetracked with daily work if the assessment is led by a third party. It is also valuable to have an unbiased party review the programs and processes put in place by the local team.
One client we recently worked with had this to say: “The pre-assessment was extremely beneficial in terms of helping define the roadmap ahead to certification. It gave our company the opportunity to improve upon our current programs and focus on areas that we may have not identified prior to the audit. I highly recommend participating in the pre-assessment as it will give you the chance to work hand in hand with your certification body and your team through the entire process, leaving you that much more prepared.”
We are already certified. Can a pre-assessment help us?
In most cases, a pre-assessment is used in order to prepare for your initial audit. In a few cases, a pre-assessment for certified sites can be a way to gain new insight and keep your team on its toes. Ideally, you are already fostering a strong food safety culture and continuous improvement by means of regular internal audits. If time or resources are limited, this is a feasible and worthwhile supplement to your internal audit program.
If you are looking at expanding your certifications, a pre-assessment may be your next step. Are you adding Gluten Free Certification? Working toward the SQF Quality Code in addition to SQF Manufacturing Certification? The pre-assessment audit is a perfect benchmark to assess your readiness.
When is the best time for a pre-assessment?
Scheduling your pre-assessment about six months before your audit will allow your team plenty of time to correct any gaps that are uncovered. If capital improvements are required, you may want to pad that lead time a little more. Planning ahead will put you in a less-rushed state so you can enter the audit with preparedness and confidence.
How do I get started?
Email auditing@eurofinsus.com to get started with scheduling a pre-assessment for your facility!