What is it called when a quality audit is requested from within the company?

When a quality audit is requested from within the company, it is referred to as an internal audit. Internal audits are conducted by employees or teams within the organization rather than by external parties. The primary purpose of an internal audit is to evaluate the effectiveness of the company’s quality management systems, compliance with regulations, and adherence to established policies and procedures.

Conducting internal audits allows organizations to identify areas for improvement, address potential risks, and ensure continuous quality enhancement. This process is vital for fostering a culture of quality within the organization, aligning with strategic goals, and preparing for potential external audits. Internal audits are also beneficial for training employees in quality standards and practices.

In contrast, an external audit is performed by independent auditors who evaluate the organization’s systems from an outside perspective, while an independent audit typically refers to third-party assessments that provide impartial opinions. A compliance audit focuses specifically on adherence to regulations and standards but does not emphasize the internal workings of the organization like an internal audit does.