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SGS welcomes client inspection of our analytical processes at ANY time. We appreciate the opportunity to work with you to enhance the analytical service we provide. SGS does however request, if you wish to send an agent to inspect our operations, that the following policy be observed. SGS anticipates that the audit process will be constructive and that it will enhance your confidence in our service.
Policy Scope
This policy specifically applies to 2nd party audits, including reviews or inspections of SGS laboratories that "are conducted by parties having an interest in the organization, such as customers, or by other persons on their behalf" (IS0 19011). This policy has been written for the express purpose of clients, their authorized representatives and SGS laboratory management. It details the practices as per IS0 19011 that are expected by SGS Minerals Services that will allow clients and their representatives access to SGS facilities and people for the purpose of client review. SGS advocates transparency and accountability, and so encourages client review2, but in accordance with IS0 19011.
Confidentiality
SGS requires clients and their representatives to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to review, which must be sighted by the SGS Minerals Services representative on-site.
Auditor Identification
Client representatives must provide documentation to support their identity and the client that they represent (a copy being retained by SGS). IS0 19011 outlines in detail auditor competence, although SGS is prepared to forsake this if client representatives are able to identify affiliations with professional (geotechnical / scientific) bodies as an indication of their competence and qualification to conduct the review (affiliations being recorded by SGS).
Photographs and Access
SGS allows photographs to be taken on the basis that no proprietary equipment, plant, systems, improvements and /or instructions are included (rulings being made where necessary by the SGS Minerals Services representative). Photographs as with all other documentation must comply with IS0 19011 requirements for "fair representation". SGS will allow unimpeded access to the process and records as they relate to that client only. Auditors are to be escorted throughout the process by a senior representative of SGS Minerals Services. The auditor / client representative will be required to comply with all SGS OH&S requirements during the visit.
Advance Notice
So that the auditor may be appropriately accompanied by a qualified senior representative of SGS Minerals Services, appropriate advance notice must be given of a review.
Audit Objectives, Scope and Criteria
As per IS0 19011 an audit program / plan that specifies the objectives, scope and criteria of the audit is to be presented to SGS and discussed during an opening meeting. IS0 19011 also requires a closing meeting and a timely copy of the report, that reflects the advice and content provided to the client, so that SGS can understand the issues and importantly make appropriate corrective action. Upon receipt of an audit report SGS will respond within 14 days.
Audit Conduct
For conduct of the audit IS0 19011 requires ethical conduct, fair presentation, due professional care, independence and an evidence-based approach.
SGS Third Party Auditor Confidentiality Agreement
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