TS EN ISO 19011

TS EN ISO 19011 is a guidance standard for auditing management systems. It sets out a conceptual framework for how audits should be planned and carried out, covering audit principles, management of an audit programme, conduct of management system audits, and the evaluation of the competence of people involved in the audit process.

Audit programme management and audit roles

In general technical terms, an audit is a systematic, independent examination used to assess whether a management system conforms to defined criteria and whether it is effectively implemented. This standard focuses on the roles of the person managing the audit programme, auditors and audit teams, with guidance that supports the coordination of audits as an ongoing programme rather than isolated events.

Competence and practical context

• Audit principles and core auditing concepts
• Management of an audit programme
• Conduct of management system audits
• Evaluation of the competence of individuals involved in the audit process
• General guidance for audit programme managers, auditors and audit teams

Management system auditing provides a common methodological basis across disciplines such as quality, environmental management, information security, and occupational health and safety. ISO 19011 is concerned with how auditing is managed so that it remains reliable, consistent and fit for purpose, rather than with certification rules or the performance objectives of any particular management system. As a result, it is a key reference for professionals who plan, manage or perform audits.