Is having a documented internal audit procedure a requirement for management systems?

Having a documented internal audit procedure is indeed a requirement for management systems under ISO 9001. The standard emphasizes the importance of a structured approach to auditing as a means of ensuring compliance with the established quality management system and identifying areas for improvement.

A documented procedure for internal audits helps organizations plan, implement, and maintain audits effectively. It serves as a guide to ensure that audits are performed consistently, and it allows for the tracking of audit results, findings, and follow-up actions. This documentation supports the overall objectives of continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

While ISO 9001 does provide flexibility in terms of the size and complexity of the organization, the requirement for a documented procedure for internal audits applies to all organizations that wish to demonstrate compliance with the standard. Thus, indicating that a documented internal audit procedure is unnecessary would not align with ISO 9001 requirements.