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When we begin the implementation process to become certified to GFSI standards, the importance of testing the system during audits is always highlighted. This proves its effectiveness.

For quality managers in companies, it is almost obvious that they must test their system. They manage your strengths and weaknesses daily, monitor it, improve it and understand how to solve problems and the risks involved.

Each quality manager applies their own values and principles to evaluate the risks associated with deviations. These usually align with the common good, guaranteeing safety and being aware of the implications and consequences.

However, these evaluations are not always free of personal subjectivity and may not be expressed clearly. It is crucial that safety and quality standards are consistent, overcoming individual differences, time and specific situations, thus reflecting a culture of safety shared in the organization.

When evaluating a system, companies must demonstrate that they continually maintain the standards and quality of their products.

During a certification audit, the situation changes. The auditor, representative of the certifying body, only knows the system from the information provided and is unaware of the non-systematic adjustments that influence the moral criteria of those who make decisions.

During the inspection of the production line and through interviews and document analysis, the independent auditor must collect sufficient data and evidence on compliance with the requirements and effectiveness of the management system.

To overcome this challenge, auditors use the Best Kept Secret that we will reveal here, in order to help companies prepare for and successfully pass a food safety management system audit.

First clue:

After examining the facility plan and process flow to understand the spatial layout, temporal sequence, and potential weaknesses, the auditor will proceed to walk the plant, meticulously gathering the necessary information.

Second clue:

The auditor may:

• Ask production managers to describe their tasks.
• Request a demonstration of the induction for new employees, represented by the auditor, explaining the functions in each key position.
• Inquire about the controls carried out in your area, their acceptable limits, their importance and the reasons for keeping these parameters under control.
• Ask where and when these controls are documented.
• Consult how they would act in the event of deviations from established controls.

Third clue:

This information will be compared with what is declared in the documents and will also be compared with good practices, based on the auditor’s experience and the technical and scientific knowledge applicable to the specific production.

Secret revealed!

Discrepancies identified during this comparison will highlight areas of improvement in the system, giving the auditor a clear view of its weaknesses.

We recommend applying this technique in internal audits to better discover and understand the Secret for yourselves.

We hope this information is useful to you. We are interested in knowing your comments and experiences.

We are available to help with any questions or problems!