First Party Audits
A first-party audit also known as an internal audit is conducted by an organization on its own management system covering policies, risk management processes, etc.
The purpose of the first party audit is to evaluate the effectiveness of the management system and to establish conformity in the form of appropriate corrective actions where required.
We frequently complete first party audits for and on behalf of our clients as part of our support services.
Second Party Audits
A second-party audit is an audit commissioned by the party usually exposed to supply risks associated with the organization being audited.
The purpose of the second party audit is to evaluate supplier or subcontractor conformity to specific requirements and to identify appropriate corrective actions where required. Second party audits often relate to contractual quality, environmental or other requirements set out between the client and the supplier or service provider.
We frequently complete second party audits for and on behalf of our clients as part of our overall support services.
Objectives of First Party Audits
1. Verify Compliance: Ensure that the organization’s processes and procedures meet the requirements of the relevant standard
2. Identify Non-conformities: Detect deviations from requirements, established standards, policies, or procedures.
3. Improve Processes: Identify opportunities for improvement and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of processes.
4. Prepare for ISO/BRC certification: Serve as a preparatory step before undergoing second-party (customer) or third-party (certification body) audits
Objectives Second Party Audits
1. Verify Supplier Compliance: Ensure that the suppliers or subcontractors adhere to contractual requirements, quality standards, and other agreed-upon requirements including specifications.
2. Assess Risk: Identify and mitigate risks associated with the supplier’s processes, products, or services.
3. Enhance Supply Chain Management: Improve the overall quality and reliability of the supply chain by evaluating and collaborating with suppliers.
4. Build Stronger Relationships: Foster better communication and relationships between the customer and supplier by aligning expectations and standards.
We provide first and second party audit services for the following standards and specifically agreed scopes.
- ISO 9001:2015
- ISO 14001:2015
- ISO 45001:2018
- ISO 27001:2022
- ISO 13485:2016
- The BRCGS Global Food Safety Standard
- The BRCGS Packaging Materials Global Standard
- The BRCGS Storage and Distribution Standard
Contact us to review your first or second party audit requirements and/or to request a quotation.