Clause 9.3.1.2.4 requires an interval between stage 1 and stage 2 to consider the needs of the client to resolve areas of concern identified during stage 1.
What is the maximum tolerable time between stage 1 and stage 2 to perform the stage 2 audit without repeating the stage 1 audit?
March 2025
The CB shall consider if the result of the stage 1 is still valid. The decision should be justified and communicated to the client.
The interval between stage 1 and stage 2 should provide enough time for the organization to address any areas of concern but should also not compromise the eventual assumption of preparedness for stage 2 (e.g. ISO/IEC 17021-1, 9.3.1.2.4, if any significant changes which would impact the management system have occurred).