One of the more critical elements of an SMS is “auditing.” In the Plan-Do-Check-Act model, auditing falls within the “CHECK” function.
I like to say it’s the element that keeps us honest and informed. And with that in mind, I break down my audits into three (3) layers:
→ 1st Party
→ 2nd Party
→ 3rd Party
Each type of audit has its pros and cons, and the fact that the facility is auditing is critical; who is doing it plays a role, but not as critical.
Here is how these audits work:
