Due to the new R2v3 Code of Practices, we are recommending you schedule your internal audit at least two to three months before your certification body audit because any open non-conformance from your internal audit will automatically be added to your CB audit non-conformances.

Per the R2v3 Code of Practices – “A NC that is written by the R2 Facility or other Auditors shall not preclude the CB audit team from identifying the same finding. The CB audit team shall document open internal audit nonconformities, related to meeting the requirements of R2 Standard, as part of their own audit NCs, during Stage 2 and Recertification audits.”

So save yourself double the work and make sure you have enough time to close out internal audit findings before your CB audit.