TS EN ISO 19011

TS EN ISO 19011 is a guideline standard for auditing management systems. In practical terms, it addresses the common principles used when auditing different management systems, the management of an audit programme, and the competence of the people involved in the audit process. Rather than setting system-specific requirements, it provides a general framework for planning and carrying out audits in a consistent and credible way.

Audit principles and programme management

An audit is a systematic activity used to understand how well a management system conforms to intended arrangements and audit criteria. In this context, the audit approach is expected to be grounded in core principles such as impartiality, evidence-based working and professional care. The scope of TS EN ISO 19011 includes guidance on these principles, along with the management of an audit programme and the conduct of management system audits, so it supports a broader audit approach rather than a one-off inspection exercise.

Competence and practical use

The standard also gives guidance on how to evaluate the competence of people involved in auditing. This is relevant to those managing the programme, auditors and audit teams, because effective auditing requires not only method knowledge, but also subject-matter understanding, communication skills and the ability to assess evidence objectively. In general technical context, the standard is useful as a shared reference for internal audits, second-party audits and, where applicable, independent assessment activities.

• Provides general guidance for auditing management systems.
• Covers audit principles, audit programme management and the conduct of management system audits.
• Includes guidance on evaluating the competence of people involved in the audit process.
• Offers a common framework for audit programme managers, auditors and audit teams.