AIC Services assurance schemes plan a phased return to on-site audits

AIC Services in conjunction with the certification bodies have led the agri-supply sector in adopting remote auditing during the COVID 19 pandemic. This method of auditing has proved to be a reliable way of auditing companies and has the support of various sectors of the agri-supply industry. 

With the lifting of some of the movement restrictions from early July the industry is considering how to start planning a return to on-site auditing. Following discussion with the certification bodies and the industry, the initial phase of this return will be a “blended” approach to auditing.

A “blended” approach means using new technology that has been adopted over the last few months in combination with some on-site auditing. The aim is to ensure the safety of both the auditor and the participant from Covid 19, whilst ensuring that standards are upheld within the agri-supply sector. 

Certified companies will still be required to use the on-line portals to submit documents before their audit allowing it to take place in the most efficient way. The post-audit submission of correction actions will continue to be carried out via the on-line portal, which again will improve efficiencies. 

The certification bodies will be taking a pragmatic approach to this new auditing method and each participant will be assessed on a case by case basis by assessing the needs of each participant and the auditor.

Auditors will undergo a risk assessment to ensure that any Covid-19 risk is minimised both for themselves and the company being audited. Participants are responsible for the Covid-19 risk assessments of their sites and the implementation of any social distancing procedures or wearing of PPE deemed necessary.  

John Kelley, Managing Director, AIC Services said “This approach is in step with other certification and audit bodies in the UK and Europe and we look forward to your support during these challenging times.”

ENDS

About AIC

AIC is the UK trade association representing the agricultural supply chain sectors of Arable Marketing, Crop Protection and Agronomy, Feed, Fertiliser and Seeds, since its inception in 2003. In all, AIC represents members responsible for some £9 billion of farm trade. A significant part of its work is political lobbying and influencing as well as supporting members with technical information.

AIC Services, which is the professional services arm of AIC manages a range of services, including Assurance Schemes recognised by UK government as essential tools to underpin feed & food safety alongside fertiliser security.  Currently these include:

www.agindustries.org.uk

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