What is an independent audit?
In relation to the heavy vehicle industry, independent external auditors verify, investigate, examine and evaluate objective evidence ensuring applicable elements of your management system have been developed, documented and effectively implemented in accordance with relevant standards.
Even with best intentions, errors can creep in and oversights do occur. It is impossible to predict or plan for every contingency; however, the best way to improve your management system is to learn from the times when things go astray or don’t go according to plan.
Complacency can lead to an event like an on-road breach, serious crash, or a roadside intercept.  The repercussions of an on-road event often draws attention to the company and its practices which can lead to a police investigation, or a regulatory triggered or spot audit. Delays in transport-related activities, breakdowns, or failed delivery deadlines are never good for business. Dealing with the ramifications of a grounded fleet can be financial crippling.
An independent auditor can objectively without prejudice, identify and isolate inherent risks before they become entrenched, which ultimately enables the heavy vehicle Operator to install measures early enough to prevent the indiscretion from happening again. It is far more cost effective to deal with an issue before it becomes engrained.
When personnel from Lean Auditing Services conduct an independent audit, we make certain that the findings of the audit are clearly documented and verified by observations which may encompass making inquiry with staff, and/or a physical inspection of vehicles and the facility.
Based on the audit conclusions, feedback provides a mechanism for the Operator to objectively measure their consistency in accordance with the relevant standards, and identifies problematic areas that may require rectification. This ensues action can be taken to correct and document the refinements necessary to confirm the management system complies.
“Identifying improvement opportunities today to ensure your business seizes the possibilities of tomorrowâ€