What is BS EN ISO 19011:2018

BS EN ISO 19011:2018 is a professional technical standard that provides guidelines for auditing management systems. It was published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). This standard outlines the principles and practices for conducting an effective audit, ensuring that organizations comply with various requirements and continually improve their systems.

Auditing Process and Scope

The auditing process outlined in BS EN ISO 19011:2018 covers all stages of an audit, including planning, conducting, reporting, and follow-up. The standard emphasizes the importance of a systematic and risk-based approach to auditing, allowing auditors to focus on areas where risks are higher. Additionally, it takes into account the needs and expectations of interested parties, such as customers, employees, and regulatory authorities.

One of the key aspects of this standard is its scope. BS EN ISO 19011:2018 applies to any organization involved in auditing management systems, regardless of the type, size, or sector. It can be used by internal auditors within an organization, as well as external auditors hired by certification bodies. The principles and guidelines provided in this standard can be applied to various management system standards, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 27001, and many others.

Benefits of Implementing BS EN ISO 19011:2018

Implementing BS EN ISO 19011:2018 brings several benefits to organizations. Firstly, it helps ensure that audits are conducted consistently and effectively, leading to more reliable results. By following the guidelines provided in this standard, auditors can identify areas for improvement and help organizations achieve their objectives.

Secondly, BS EN ISO 19011:2018 promotes a systematic and risk-based approach to auditing, allowing organizations to focus on areas that are critical to their success. This helps in identifying potential risks and opportunities, enhancing the overall management system's performance.

Furthermore, this standard encourages continual learning and improvement. Auditors are required to maintain and enhance their audit competencies, ensuring that they stay up-to-date with the latest practices and requirements. This contributes to the professional development of auditors and leads to more effective audits.

Conclusion

BS EN ISO 19011:2018 is an essential standard for organizations and auditors involved in auditing management systems. It provides guidelines for conducting audits systematically, consistently, and effectively, contributing to improved organizational performance. By implementing this standard, organizations can enhance their management systems, identify areas for improvement, and achieve their objectives.