Just as the initial contact with the Certification Body is a key stage in itself, also is the first visit to the organization by the auditors. Internal audits have validated the timetable. Senior managers have full understanding of their own vital role in building and communicating their determination and commitment to have a sound quality system. The Chief Executive should receive regular updates on progress in the interim and, if the assessment is expected to take less than a full day, the Chief Executive Officer should be present throughout. All managers, supervisors and employees are fully briefed.
Premises are clean and tidy.
The agenda for the assessment is communicated to all departments. There should be no absentee senior managers and no distractions from the assessment focus. Plans are in place to cover any serious emergency that could take place during the assessment. A clear understanding exists of what the auditors may and may not be permitted to remove from the premises. All auditors should be accompanied by a guide who should be the manager responsible for the area being audited or, more exceptionally, by a fully briefed member of the staff.