This is truly a great topic, and some very valid opinions in the mix. Auditing is both a very rewarding, and very challenging choice of career. Yes, there are some less than desirable auditors out there, especially in programs where requirements are weak, and compliance work by both certification bodies and standard owners falls short of effective. Most in the industry have met with great and not so great auditors over our time.
Here are some thoughts to add to the mix:
- Auditor training, oversight and compliance is expensive. Where a facility seeks out least cost options in certification program and supplier, they tend to get the quality they pay for.
- We all have a role to play. When we are faced with an auditor who has some "opportunities to improve" we owe it to to the certification body to provide honest feedback, giving them the chance to improve the service being offered. There are even times when a site can help to improve an auditors performance. Anonymous complaining isn't being part of a solution.
- If the auditor is truly not qualified, call the certification body. If you aren't getting a valid response, all GFSI benchmarked programs have contact information. I fully agree that two years experience doesn't cut it for an accredited certification audit. GFSI requires a minimum of 5 years experience for a benchmarked program auditor. If you want a higher level auditor, move to a higher level Standard that delivers.
- Go for quality, and be demanding. Be clear when seeking a certification provider you want a challenging, well qualified and informed auditor.
- Don't be afraid to debate with the auditor. A good auditor appreciates a valid challenge to ensure they are providing value during the audit. If they miss something, they want to know.
Limited auditor resources are an issue, no question. It's up tot he industry to help get more people into auditing, and support the development of food safety professionals so we can rely on our audits to deliver what is intended.
Great topic GMO, and those who commented.
John