3rd April 2020
The Coronavirus crisis is confronting businesses with challenges that can quickly turn into a threat to their very existence. To ensure business operations are not further endangered or restricted by missing certificates, TÜV SÜD Management Service is increasingly relying on remote audits wherever possible. However, remote auditing is subject to special rules that must be verified on a case-by-case basis.
In view of the present situation, we are doing everything in our power to support the companies certified by us as best as possible”, explains Peter Mühlbauer, Managing Director of TÜV SÜD Management Service GmbH. Given this, considering the recommendations of the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), competent authorities and accreditation bodies, TÜV SÜD Management Service GmbH will continue to maintain its certification operations.
“Of course, the health and safety of our customers, auditors and employees is of the highest priority for us. We are following the current developments surrounding Covid-19 very closely”, says Mühlbauer, and explains that an emergency committee has been established which is continuously working on developing and implementing measures in line with the latest findings and regulatory requirements.
Special rules for ongoing certification processes
Accreditation bodies and standard owners are offering special provisions to allow for the current emergency situation in the coronavirus crisis. TÜV SÜD has summarised the key information for its customers: https://www.tuvsud.com/de-ms-corona. Alternatively, customers can also address their questions to: ms-anfragen@tuev-sued.de . In case of detailed questions, customers of TÜV SÜD Management Service are advised to directly contact their auditor or account manager.
Important facts to know about remote auditing
Remote auditing is very similar to on-site auditing, but uses information and communication technology (ICT). Of course, data protection and confidentiality play a critical role in remote auditing and are ensured. The feasibility of full remote auditing must be clarified on a case-by-case basis. However, it is always possible to perform parts of the audit remotely.
Businesses planning a remote audit should consider the following recommendations:
• Timely clarification of the type and scope of ICT use and of all details of remote auditing with the TÜV SÜD auditor
• Stable Internet connection via hard wire or WiFi: Up-to-date browser, e.g. Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer
• Laptops/computers with Internet access and video and audio capability
• Installed video conferencing software, such as Skype, Microsoft Teams, WebEx
• Quiet conference rooms or office space for uninterrupted remote auditing
• All audit participants should have an email address
• Relevant documents should be available in digital format (PDF etc.) and can be viewed with software such as a PDF reader
Further information about remote audits are available at https://www.tuvsud.com/de-en-ms-corona-factsheet
Press-contact: Sabine Krömer
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