Stage 2 audit evaluates the implementation and effectiveness of a company’s management system. It is often referred to as the “certification audit,” the final step to achieve compliance with several notable ISO standards.
The certification audit, or Stage 2 audit, plays a pivotal role in confirming the practical implementation of the management system and ensuring compliance with the ISO standard in question.
The Stage 2 audit is much more comprehensive. It reviews the full implementation and effectiveness of the management system. Conducted by an SIGMA auditor, this stage involves an in-depth audit, including control testing and internal policies and procedures evaluation.
The Stage 2 audit scrutinizes all relevant documented information, key performance objectives, internal audits, and processes, looking at the organization’s full compliance with the chosen ISO standard. It serves as the final step towards achieving ISO certification.
The primary purpose of an ISO Stage 2 audit is to confirm the full implementation of the management system and its practical adherence to the chosen ISO standard. This second stage audit aims to:
- Assess compliance with all applicable requirements of the ISO standard and regulatory requirements;
- Evaluate how well the management system aligns with the organization’s quality manual, procedures, and controls;
- Identify any nonconformities or gaps that require corrective action before ISO certification.
The Stage 2 audit is conducted on-site and involves a review of documentation, interviews, and inspections. The audit team will verify that the management system is fully implemented, controls are adequate, and the organization is ready for ISO certification.
The audit report will list any minor nonconformities or opportunities for improvement. If significant nonconformities are identified, these must be addressed before ISO certification can be issued. Following initial certification, surveillance audits are conducted annually over a three-year cycle so that your certification remains effective.
