AASP certified external auditors are individuals that have met stringent requirements as it relates to their background, qualifications, expertise and experience. All external auditors have been interviewed and approved by the AASP Auditor Selection Committee. They are also held accountable to a Code of Ethics which all auditors must adhere to.
These auditors offer auditing services to verify that a health and safety program has been implemented in accordance with AASP and Partnerships guidelines. Although they are auditing on behalf of the AASP they are not employees of the AASP.
All auditors act as independent contractors. Should your company wish to engage an external auditor it is your organization’s responsibility to:
- Contact an external auditor listed with the AASP, preferably that has experience within your industry.
- Ensure there is not a conflict of interest (such as involved with the development of your program).
- Negotiate the fee or rate for the auditing services.
- Schedule a time for the audit to ensure that it is completed within the required deadlines.
Must you use an external auditor?
External auditors are used by both large and small employers. The following are mandatory and optional uses of an External auditor:
Mandatory
- Large employers (employers with over 10 employees) must use a certified external AASP auditor for all Certificate of Recognition (COR) certification or re-certification audits (every 3 Years).
Optional
- Large employers (employers with over 10 employees) may use a certified external AASP auditor for all Certificate of Recognition (COR) maintenance audits instead of and inhouse internal auditor. However it is recommended an employer does not use the same external auditor for more than three years.
- Small employers (employers with 10 or less employees) may use a certified external AASP auditor for as Small Employer Certificate of Recognition (SECOR) certification audits (every 3 Years) instead of completing the SECOR self-assessment.
- Small employers (employers with 10 or less employees) can use a certified external AASP auditor for as Small Employer Certificate of Recognition (SECOR) maintenance audits instead of completing the SECOR self-assessment.