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Glossary

Corrective action

Action taken to eliminate the cause of a detected nonconformity so it does not recur. Distinct from correction, which addresses the immediate effect.

Source standard: ISO 9001:2015 §10.2

A corrective action under ISO 9001:2015 clause 10.2 is the structured response to a nonconformity. The required steps are:

  1. React to the nonconformity (correction; control; deal with consequences).
  2. Evaluate the need for action to eliminate the cause so it does not recur, including in similar processes elsewhere.
  3. Implement the action.
  4. Review effectiveness.
  5. Update risks and opportunities determined during planning, if necessary.
  6. Make changes to the QMS, if necessary.

Auditors look for evidence that effectiveness was verified, not just that action was taken. A corrective action register that closes items without an effectiveness check is a common finding.

See also: internal audit checklist, compliance gap analysis template.

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