What role do field notes serve in an audit?

Field notes play a critical role in an audit by justifying scores and providing supporting examples. They serve as a detailed record of observations made during the audit process. By noting specific instances of compliance or non-compliance, the auditor creates a basis for the scores assigned to different criteria evaluated in the audit. This level of documentation is essential for maintaining transparency and accountability, as it allows stakeholders to understand the rationale behind the audit findings.

In addition, field notes can capture relevant details that highlight trends or issues, which can be invaluable for both current assessments and future improvements in health, safety, and environmental practices. By providing concrete examples, the notes contribute to the overall validity of the audit results, enabling organizations to take informed actions based on the findings.