QMS transition requirements

IRCA reminds all certificated QMS auditors that they must fulfill the transition requirements for the ISO 9001:2008 update before completing any audits against the new standard. Published in November 2008, the new version of ISO 9001 includes changes that IRCA auditors must demonstrate they are familiar with by completing a minimum of two hours of relevant continuing professional development (CPD).

IRCA will accept CPD in the forms of on-the-job training, in-house training and seminars, attendance at relevant conferences, seminars and workshops, reading or taking a specific QMS auditor transition course. Auditors must log their development. IRCA will be monitoring this during the normal tri-annual renewal of certification. Auditors can also submit their update training outside of their renewal period.

Robert Skelton-Stroud, IRCA operations manager said: 'With 8,500 IRCA certified QMS auditors around the globe, IRCA takes its responsibilities in ensuring its auditors are up to date and capable very seriously. We encourage current certificated auditors to submit their CPD as soon as possible.'

Auditors wanting more information on ensuring they are up to date should visit the auditor certification pages.