Internal IATF 16949 System Audits in times of the Corona Pandemic

Are internal Remote Audits acceptable?

A clear yes can be given, as the IATF has clarified this open question within their „GLOBAL WAIVERS AND MEASURES IN RESPONSE TO THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC (COVID-19)“ 

In the FAQ’s it’s clearly stated that the requirements of section 9.2.2.1 are still applicable, but it is also explained that based on the risk approach within this crisis, the risk for safety and health of internal auditors and auditees is at a higher priority than during „normal“ times. 

So, the organisation needs to evaluate the possible risks with a physical on-sight audit and should consider other procedures like for example a remote audit. The effectiveness of such an audit method should be demonstrated. Therefore, proper audit evidences should be generated just like during an on-sight audit. 

Link to IATF Global Waiver:
https://www.iatfglobaloversight.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/IATF-Measures-Coronavirus-Pandemic-COVID-19-REVISION-2_27April2020.pdf

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