How to become a BRCGS auditor
All auditors must work for a certification body, which may be on an employed or contracted basis. An independent auditor cannot issue a BRCGS audit certificate.
The certification body is responsible for ensuring that the auditor fulfils the specified competency requirements, is registered with BRCGS, and that skills and knowledge of all registered auditors are maintained.
Generally auditors must be able to demonstrate, through qualifications and work experience in the manufacturing sector they're applying for, that they meet the criteria specified for each Standard. As a minimum:
- a degree or equivalent in a field relevant to the Standard;
- successful completion of a registered QMS Lead Auditor course or equivalent;
- successful completion of HACCP training based on the principles of Codex Alimentarius, of at least two days’ duration or the equivalent risk assessment training for non-food products;
- appropriate post-qualification work experience (a minimum of five years relevant experience in industry, usually in a manufacturing sector);
- completed BRCGS training in the specified Standard; and
- audit experience – generally a specified number of audits including those against the BRCGS Global Standards.