You will receive forms specific to your activity in order for you and the CB to prepare for the audit. These forms must be filled in fully and sent back to the CB before the audit so that the CO may do a preliminary documentary review.
An auditor will contact you directly to arrange the logistics.
You will receive an
audit plan
from your inspector before the audit.
Ensure that the people noted in the plan will be present and the documents noted are ready to show the inspector.
During the audit, your operation will be assessed as to whether it meets the certification requirements.
What to expect during the audit
a)
Opening Meeting: confirming the scope of the certification and audit; confirms the audit plan
b)
Documentary review with management: The management system will be reviewed, as well as documentary evidence of certain requirements, for example;
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List of collectors/farmers/members
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Bookkeeping and product flow
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Workers contracts, payrolls, etc.
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Employee handbooks and policies
c)
On-site visit and interviews: The auditor will take a tour of the facilities, accompanied by the responsible manager to assess certain requirements. Interviews with personnel and/or producers will be carried out without the presence of management.
d)
Closing meeting: The auditor will prepare his/her preliminary report on the Fair for Life or For Life requirements based on the observations during the audit. You will receive an initial audit report either during the closing meeting or after the audit. A final discussion with the managers will note any identified non-conformities. You must make a commitment during the closing meeting (or within 1 week after the audit) to undertake defined corrective actions in order to correct the non-conformities.
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Translation: In case a translator is needed, you will need to organise one. The translator should not be a member of your operation´s management and should preferably not be in any way involved in your operation.
Next step: corrective measures