NSF has developed live-streamed audits using the secure video conferencing software, BlueJeans.
Within 72 hours of lockdown the first physical audits were being replaced by the new approach. Following positive feedback from members, auditors and scheme owners, NSF says it is now “business as usual” for all new and existing farmer members who require an audit.
Using BlueJeans, auditors are able to visually assess all parts of a member’s business, from buildings and animals to documents and records, while maintaining all social distancing and isolation requirements. this system is being adopted by Lion to audit egg businesses.
Agriculture Director Anita Roberts said: “We recognise that technology is not something everyone is comfortable with and we have therefore trained our assessors and team members to help our farm members through the process.”
Roberts added that all assessors have received training on the heightened risks that Covid-19 brings so they can share those insights and thoughts with farmers as they complete assessments.
NSF International carries out 30,000 farm assessments a year and said it was the first certification body to find workable solutions for carrying out the farm audits during the COVID-19 restrictions.
NSF launches live-streamed audits for assurance schemes including Lion
By Chloe Ryan
Chloe Ryan
Editor of Poultry Business, Chloe has spent the past decade writing about the food industry from farming, through manufacturing, retail and foodservice. When not working, dog walking and reading biographies are her favourite hobbies.