The Importance of a thorough GAP Assessment
It is critical that the gap assessment be conducted not only by an individual that has taken an auditor or practitioner training course but more importantly, by a consultant that has experience in implementing ALL of the criteria required to meet all of the requirements of the standard.
This ensures that all gaps are identified at the onset of the project so the management has a clear understanding of the timeline of the implementation project, the resources required and costs of the project.
What Takes Place During A GAP Assessment?
In order to assess how your organization currently “measures up” to a GFSI scheme, a gap assessment is the initial step to identify nonconformances. Our consultant, will review your GMP’s, HACCP plans , existing policies and procedures and facility assessment.
At the end of the gap assessment or shortly thereafter, your company will receive a written report of the findings. This detailed report will indicate each section of the standard, how you comply and if you do not currently comply, whether it would be considered a major or minor nonconformance and most importantly, the corrective and/or preventative action you need to take to be in compliance.
During the gap assessment our expert will:
- Review existing food safety/quality manuals
- Review pre-requisite programs/Good Manufacturing Practices
- Review existing HACCP plans
- Assess the company’s procedures against the requirements of the food safety scheme/standard they are pursuing (i.e. SQF, BRC, FSSC, etc.)
- Prepare a comprehensive report of the findings delineating of what the company will need to do to prepare for certification
