Audit Findings, Nonconformity Writing & Corrective Action Follow-Up Training Course

Course Overview

Learning Objectives

• Explain the relationship between audit evidence, audit criteria, findings, and nonconformities.
• Distinguish nonconformities from observations, recommendations, and opportunities for improvement.
• Apply structured methods for writing clear, factual, and evidence-based nonconformity statements.
• Reference applicable requirements and link them directly to objective audit evidence.
• Evaluate the significance, extent, and potential impact of audit findings.
• Identify recurring and systemic nonconformities across processes and departments.
• Apply root cause analysis techniques to determine underlying causes.
• Evaluate corrective action plans for relevance, feasibility, and completeness.
• Establish follow-up methods, responsibilities, deadlines, and closure criteria.
• Verify corrective action effectiveness and assess the risk of recurrence.

Who Should Attend

Learning Outcomes

• Interpret audit evidence and determine whether a requirement has been fulfilled.
• Write nonconformity statements that clearly identify the requirement, evidence, and nature of the failure.
• Avoid vague language, unsupported conclusions, and ambiguous audit terminology.
• Classify findings consistently according to applicable audit criteria and procedures.
• Assess the severity, scope, and potential consequences of nonconformities.
• Apply root cause analysis tools, including the 5 Whys and cause-and-effect analysis.
• Distinguish immediate correction from corrective action addressing the underlying cause.
• Evaluate action plans for defined responsibilities, realistic deadlines, and measurable outcomes.
• Verify implementation through records, interviews, observation, and other appropriate evidence.
• Determine whether corrective actions are effective and whether findings can be formally closed.

Course Outline