What are the most important steps for conducting a food safety audit in a manufacturing facility?

1 Prepare the audit plan

The first step is to prepare the audit plan, which outlines the scope, objectives, criteria, and methods of the audit. The audit plan should also include the audit team, the audit schedule, the audit checklist, and the audit report format. The audit plan should be based on the type and level of the audit, as well as the facility's food safety management system (FSMS). The audit plan should be communicated and agreed upon with the facility's management and staff before the audit.

2 Conduct the opening meeting

The second step is to conduct the opening meeting, which is a formal meeting between the audit team and the facility's management and staff. The purpose of the opening meeting is to introduce the audit team, explain the audit process, confirm the audit plan, address any questions or concerns, and establish a cooperative and professional relationship. The opening meeting should also cover the confidentiality, impartiality, and ethical aspects of the audit.

3 Perform the audit activities

The third step is to perform the audit activities, which involve collecting and evaluating evidence of the facility's compliance with the food safety requirements. The audit activities include observing the facility's operations, interviewing the staff, reviewing the documents and records, and verifying the corrective actions. The audit team should use the audit checklist as a guide and document their findings and observations in a clear and objective manner. The audit team should also communicate with the facility's management and staff throughout the audit and provide feedback and recommendations.

4 Conduct the closing meeting

The fourth step is to conduct the closing meeting, which is a formal meeting between the audit team and the facility's management and staff. The purpose of the closing meeting is to present and discuss the audit results, highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the facility's FSMS, identify any nonconformities or opportunities for improvement, and agree on the corrective actions and follow-up measures. The closing meeting should also thank the facility's management and staff for their cooperation and support, and confirm the audit report delivery and review process.

7 Here’s what else to consider

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