Use this checklist as an initial sense-check. It does not replace an internal audit against the applicable standard, but it can help identify obvious gaps before audit day.
Business and Scope
The certification, customer and audit scope is confirmed.
Current standards, checklists and customer specifications are available.
Responsibilities for each part of the system are clearly assigned.
The site, products, processes and seasonal activities match the documented scope.
Documents and Records
Policies, procedures and forms are current and approved.
Obsolete documents have been removed from use.
Required records are available for the full review period.
Records are legible, complete, dated and signed where required.
Missing or unusual records have been investigated before audit.
Food Safety and Operational Controls
The HACCP or food safety plan reflects the actual process.
Cleaning, hygiene and contamination controls are implemented.
Calibration and verification records are current.
Supplier and contractor approval evidence is available.
Chemical, SDS, WHP and restricted-entry controls are current.
Traceability and Incident Readiness
A traceability test or mock recall has been completed.
The exercise included product, supplier, customer and mass-balance information.
Recall contacts and notification pathways are current.
Complaints, incidents and non-conforming product records are reviewed.
People and Implementation
Training and competency records are complete.
Staff can explain the controls relevant to their work.
Supervisors understand how to respond when something goes wrong.
Internal communication and toolbox records are available.
Internal Review and Audit Presentation
An internal audit has been completed against the correct criteria.
Corrective actions include root cause and effectiveness checks.
Management has reviewed performance, risks and outstanding actions.
Evidence is organised so it can be retrieved efficiently during audit.
Need a more detailed review? Cultiv8 can assess the actual criteria, evidence and site practices.Request Support