No, the current epidemic of the COVID-19 may impact the Certification Bodies (CBs) ability to complete the scheduled audits. However, the safety of people that conduct audits is top priority as determined by governmental regulations, industry and CB own policies. The Foundation FSSC 22000 has decided to grant an exception in the case of the Coronavirus where this is preventing CBs from travelling to organizations in affected areas/countries. For this reason, guidance has been issued for CBs as to how to manage postponed audits which do not impact the certification status in the next 6 months.
Yes, in the case where the certificate will expire, a validity extension of up to 6 months is allowed following a documented risk assessment and a successful ‘remote’ audit by the CB following IAF MD4:2018 – The use of information and communication technology (ICT) for auditing/assessment purposes. This is only applicable when the ‘CB requirements in relation to Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)’ apply.1
The European Food safety Authority (EFSA)2 has stated on 9th March 2020 that there is no evidence to assume that food is a likely source or route of transmission of the virus.
No, because the safety of CB auditors and site personnel is of prime importance therefore on-site audits are postponed to later this year. Instead, CBs conduct risk assessments and remote audits on the certified sites in the meantime, to ensure continued compliance with FSSC 22000 Scheme requirements.
In order to maintain the integrity of FSSC 22000 certificates issued by our licensed CBs, the Foundation is in close contact with its partners namely industry CBs and Accreditation Bodies (ABs). FSSC 22000 monitors the global situation on a daily basis and defines actions to be taken. At this moment we have developed guidelines and requirements to be followed by our CB and AB partners. Furthermore, will conduct additional reviews of risk assessments and remote assessments performed by our CBs while additional actions will be developed when necessary.