Post-certification audits must be conducted at least once a year, excluding renewal years. The date of the first post-certification audit after initial certification must not exceed 12 months from the certification decision date.
The frequency of follow-up audits may need to be adjusted to accommodate factors such as seasonality or limited-duration management system certifications (e.g., temporary construction sites).

A stage 1 audit may be required if there are significant changes to the management system, organization, or the circumstances in which the management system operates (e.g. changes in legislation).
If the renewal certification activity is successfully completed before the expiration date of the current certification, the expiration date of the new certification may be based on the expiration date of the existing certification.

We may conduct an audit of a client with or without notice to investigate a complaint, respond to a change, or as a follow-up to a client whose certification has been suspended.