Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) Prasctice Exam

What should a lead auditor do if an auditee claims a problem has never occurred before?

1. Note that the deficiency is a random occurrence

2. Draft a response requesting a more concise root-cause analysis

3. Confer with the audit client about the response

4. Schedule a follow-up audit immediately

The correct answer is: Draft a response requesting a more concise root-cause analysis

Drafting a response requesting a more concise root-cause analysis is the correct approach when an auditee claims that a problem has never occurred before. This action is crucial in the context of auditing because it encourages a thorough investigation into the issue at hand. By requesting a more detailed root-cause analysis, the lead auditor ensures that the auditee considers all possible factors contributing to the problem, rather than dismissing it as a one-time or isolated incident. A concise root-cause analysis is essential in quality auditing, as it helps identify whether systemic issues underlie the reported problem. It fosters a deeper understanding of processes and facilitates improvements in the system, thus enhancing the overall quality culture of the organization. This proactive measure also aids in providing documentation for future audits and can lead to implementation of preventive actions rather than reactive fixes. In this context, the other choices could lead to less effective outcomes. Noting that the deficiency is a random occurrence could undermine the importance of investigating the issue further. Conferencing with the audit client about the response may not directly address the need for an in-depth analysis. Scheduling a follow-up audit immediately may be premature if the root cause has not yet been fully explored. Thus, the focus on obtaining a concise root-cause analysis