SQF Update

By, Kim Bukowski, Extension Support Specialist

SQF announced on Jan.6 2014 that they would become the first internationally accredited third-party assessment program to require unannounced audits.

The unannounced audit protocol will be implemented in July 2014 in the new edition 7.2, and will require that one out of every three SQF audits will be unannounced.

This new twist in the SQF audit process will encourage suppliers to be “audit ready” at anytime. Some of the challenges will be; having Plant Management including corporate staff available at an unannounced time. Scheduling vacations and shift coverage at the last minute and the costs involved in this. The proposed unannounced audit will take place within a 60-day window, 30 days prior or 30 days after the anniversary date. Each supplier will have only one unannounced audit in a 3-year cycle.

Some of the other proposed changes for version 7.2 include;

Exemptions for product lines or products will only be allowed when written justification is provided.

Surveillance audits will be a scored audit however; the recertification audit date will remain the same and the unannounced audit will be introduced.

Requirements for “Seasonal Production” will be addressed.

CB criteria will include a required traceability exercise during the audit.

Elements 2.4.1.3 and 2.6.3.1 iv, will be clarified that SQFI and the CB must be listed as an essential contact.  The new edition 7.2 will be released and fully implemented on July 3, 2014.

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