Pre-assessment is an option offered by most CBs to help an organization determine its readiness for the certification audit. Other terms for pre-assessment are pre-audit and trial audit. Pre-assessments offer the opportunity for a no-risk-of-failure audit and the experience of a third-party audit.
During a pre-assessment, the audit team evaluates all applicable management systems elements for approach, implementation, and the amount of evidence available. Audit findings are limited to weak implementation or failure to address an element or requirement. These are described in a written pre-assessment report; formal nonconformance reports may not be issued.
Accredited CBs are not permitted to offer advice on how to resolve nonconformances, as this would be considered consulting. Accredited CBs are not allowed to offer certification and consulting together. ANAB limits the number and frequency of pre-assessments to prevent the perception of consulting or advice giving.