Is it true that the auditor doesn't need to know the location of the records but instead must ask the auditee to present them?

The assertion that an auditor does not need to know the location of the records and must instead rely on the auditee to present them reflects a fundamental aspect of the audit process. In an effective audit, the auditor's role involves evaluating the Quality Management System (QMS) against predetermined criteria, which often includes the review of records and documentation.

While it’s true that auditors may request records from the auditee, having a general understanding of the location of these records can enhance their efficiency and effectiveness during the audit. This knowledge does not diminish the auditee's responsibility to present the required documentation; however, it enables auditors to better plan their approach and ensure that they can effectively assess compliance with ISO 9001 standards.

Auditors are trained to evaluate the processes and their outcomes, which inherently includes understanding where critical records are kept and how they are accessed. This knowledge supports the integrity of the audit process, ensuring that all necessary documentation is reviewed thoroughly, thereby helping to ascertain compliance with the QMS requirements.