In short: Travel restrictions have pushed auditors and certification bodies to use information and communication technology to continue audits remotely.
The COVID-19 pandemic has made on-site audits impossible or impractical in many parts of the world. Certification bodies and internal audit teams are increasingly turning to remote auditing using information and communication technology (ICT).
Guidance for remote audits
Accreditation and certification bodies are applying existing guidance on the use of ICT for auditing, such as IAF MD 4, to decide when remote techniques are appropriate and how to manage the associated risks.
Good practice
- Assess whether the audit objectives can be met remotely before planning
- Test technology and connectivity with the auditee in advance
- Agree how documents, records and live processes will be shared securely
- Use video walk-throughs to observe operations where possible
- Record any limitations and plan follow-up on-site verification if needed
Remote auditing skills are now part of the modern auditor’s toolkit — see the Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) certification.