Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) Prasctice Exam

If the audit escort for one area is repeatedly late or unavailable, what is the best option open to the auditor?

1. Notify the auditee management of the consequences created by the delays.

2. Narrow the scope of the audit to accommodate the delays.

3. Proceed without the escort.

4. Assess system effectiveness using objective evidence from other areas.

The correct answer is: Notify the auditee management of the consequences created by the delays.

The best option for the auditor in this situation is to notify the auditee management of the consequences created by the delays. This approach prioritizes communication and highlights the importance of collaboration during the audit process. By addressing the issue with management, the auditor can ensure that they are aware of how the delays impact the audit's effectiveness and possibly discuss solutions to prevent future occurrences. This action reinforces the expectations for cooperation during an audit and can lead to improved scheduling and accountability moving forward. It also emphasizes the auditor's role in maintaining integrity and quality in the audit process, thereby fostering a productive relationship between the audit team and auditee management. While other options might seem viable, they either diminish the scope of the audit, bypass necessary protocols, or rely on evidence that may not accurately reflect the area under audit. Each of these consequences could compromise the audit's effectiveness and reliability, which is why notifying management is the most appropriate response in this scenario.