Kevin Belson
TC Chair, IAF
Technical Manager, UKAS
The concept of remote audits has been around for many years and has for a long time been possible within stated controls. We all recognise that the COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated a dramatic shift to remote auditing due to travel and attendance restrictions, provided us with an opportunity to better understand the role and capabilities of remote auditing within the world of accredited certification. It is now widely recognised that remote auditing techniques can be a valuable tool when used correctly and effectively.
The IAF Technical Committee has been looking closely, through a dedicated Task Group, at the current situation with regard to remote and blended audits, including reviewing coverage in standards and in existing IAF documents.
It is envisaged that, along with increased use of digital technology, remote and innovative auditing methodologies will become part of the normal audit process, although they are unlikely to fully replace traditional auditing
However, we need to recognise that, while remote auditing is a useful tool, it is but one of many tools in the auditor’s toolbox, and it is important that the correct auditing methodology is used in the right circumstances, always remembering the need to demonstrate a complete and effective audit. It is vital to understand the strengths and limitations of each audit technique and it seems likely that further audit plans will include clear indication of the methodologies being used at each stage of the audit.
It has been agreed that the Task Force on remote auditing will evolve into a new permanent Working Group (WG), the WG Digital, recognising the important role of remote, digital, and innovative auditing methods now and into the future.
As Technical Committee Chair I consider it vital that IAF continues to recognise and embrace the use of remote, digital and innovative auditing techniques within the controls and principles of ISO/IEC 17011. The activities of the new WG, and other WGs and Task Forces, will help us to ensure that all methodologies are used in an effective and controlled way.
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IAF Outlook 
An excellent and good initiative by Respected Kevin Belson, TC Chair, IAF and Technical Manager, UKAS. this is the need of the time to address such kind of digital requirements during the remote assessment.
I also used the remote assessment since last two years and i knew lot of issues which need to be addressed under the umbrella of IAF. I’ll also share my experiences about it if you need any assistance.
again thanks
with best regards
Mufti Naeem Shahid
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Indeed, since the COVID-19 pandemic, the remote auditing method has become even more important, and it was expected to save time and money.
In order to be able to carry out an efficient and effective audit remotely as an audit leader of a certification company, more intensive audit preparation and coordination with the customer is required, which must at least have been comprehended within the context of the remote audit – together with the associated evidence. However, this does not replace the audit and the flexibility on site, because during the discussions, facts often arise that deviate from the planned audit guidelines, but are (also) essential for the effective implementation of the standard requirements. Experience shows that the issues can often be clarified more quickly on site than by submitting the documents later. Administrative and support activities should also not be audited continuously and exclusively remotely, since there is a risk of being too “on the surface”.
If the management system processes are well known to the external auditor, the remote audit is a very good addition to the audit tools, which should be used carefully in order to be able to perform an effective, efficient audit with added value for the client.
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