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ISO 19011:2018 updates guidance for auditing management systems

Quality auditor with a clipboard on site
In short: The third edition of ISO 19011 introduces a risk-based approach to auditing and extends guidance to all types of management systems.

ISO has published the third edition of ISO 19011:2018, Guidelines for auditing management systems.

Key updates

  • Addition of the risk-based approach to the principles of auditing
  • Expanded guidance on managing an audit programme, including audit programme risk
  • Expanded guidance on conducting an audit, particularly audit planning
  • Expanded generic competence requirements for auditors
  • Adjusted terminology to reflect the process rather than the object (“thing”) being audited
  • Removal of the annex containing competence requirements for auditing specific management system disciplines

Why it matters for auditors

ISO 19011 is the foundation for first-party (internal) and second-party (supplier) audits across quality, environment, health and safety and other management systems. Auditors and audit programme managers should update their practices accordingly.

ISO 19011 is a core reference for the CQA and CQLA certifications.