What is an audit?

Before covering the specific character and nature of a food safety audit, let us first look at what an audit is in general. An audit is usually defined as:
Audit is a systematic, independent and documented process for obtaining audit evidence and evaluating it objectively to determine the extent to which the audit criteria are fulfilled.In simple language, an audit is a structured activity whereby a trained individual checks for evidence that a standard is being complied with. The trained individual (auditors) will collect evidence to support their conclusion in regard to the level of compliance and overall result of the audit. This definition and description applies to auditing in general and also where an audit is focused on food safety.

Principles of Auditing

In order to ensure effective and repeatable audits, there are a number of basic principles that need to be applied. These principles support auditing conclusions that are relevant and sufficient and allow auditors to work independently from one another to reach similar conclusions in similar circumstances. There are five principles in total: Ethical conduct Fair presentation Due professional care Independence Evidence based approach

Why are the audits necessary?

The Food Authority has a legislative responsibility to conduct audits of licensed businesses. Audits are necessary to:ensure public health and safetyensure compliance with Food Regulation 2015 the Food Standards Code Without rigorous standards there is a danger of food being unsafe to consume which can cause serious illness, loss of work or even fatalities