Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) Prasctice Exam

An auditee has responded to all requests for corrective action in a timely manner. What is the next step for the auditor?

1. Close all findings with adequate objective evidence

2. Evaluate the adequacy of the responses

3. Schedule a follow-up audit to verify corrective action

4. Schedule verification for routine items at the next audit

The correct answer is: Evaluate the adequacy of the responses

When an auditee responds to requests for corrective action in a timely manner, the auditor's next step is to evaluate the adequacy of those responses. This step is crucial because it allows the auditor to determine whether the corrective actions taken are effective, address the identified issues comprehensively, and are in alignment with the requirements set forth in the audit criteria. Evaluating the adequacy involves assessing whether the actions implemented are not only timely but also appropriate and sufficient to mitigate the risks or nonconformities noted during the audit. This process might include reviewing the evidence provided, discussing the actions taken with the auditee, and ensuring that the root causes of the issues have been addressed. Completing this evaluation accurately helps ensure that the audit process maintains integrity, and it supports continuous improvement within the organization being audited. It sets the foundation for possibly moving forward to either close findings or plan for further verification if necessary, but first, the adequacy of the responses must be ascertained.