Audit Scenario – Training Requirements
From Lynn Clyde, BRC Consultant
The following is a typical auditing scenario that might be found when auditing an ISO 9001:2008 QMS for clause 6.2.1 Human Resources. Read the scenario to determine if you think it would be conforming or nonconforming, then read the answer and explanation.
Support Information – ISO 9001:2008 Clause 6.2.1
Personnel performing work affecting conformity to product requirements shall be competent on the basis of appropriate education, training, skills and experience.
Scenario
While auditing the human resources department, the auditor asked to see the education and training requirements for some of the senior management staff. The HR manager said that since these people do not affect conformance of the product, they are not required to identify those requirements.
Answer
Nonconforming to clause 6.2.1 Human Resources – General
Explanation
The standard states “personnel performing work affecting conformity to product requirements, shall be competent on the basis of appropriate education, training, skills and experience.” When taking a supply chain perspective of the organization, it is commonly understood that all personnel perform work that affects conformance to product requirements. This includes management, administration, research, production and temporary personnel. In other words, the requirements for education, training, skills and experience must be identified for all personnel.
It is up to each organization to determine how minimal or extensive that might be for each of these four competencies. Many (or even all) employees can be grouped together based on common roles or job functions.
