15 audit questions that can be asked during an assessment of Clause 7.3 (Sampling) of ISO/IEC 17025:2017, especially in the context of food testing laboratories:

General Sampling Process

1. Can you explain the procedure your lab follows when sampling is part of the scope?

2. Do you have a documented sampling plan and method for each test that requires sampling?

3. Who is responsible for performing the sampling? Are they trained and competent?

Sampling Plan and Method

4. How do you ensure the sampling method addresses all relevant factors that may affect the validity of test results?

5. Is your sampling plan based on statistical methods where reasonable? Can you provide an example?

6. Where is the sampling plan maintained and how is it made available at the sampling site?

Sampling Method Details

7. Does the sampling method describe how sampling sites or items are selected?

8. How is the preparation and treatment of samples described in your procedures before testing begins?

9. In case of multiple sampling locations, how do you document the exact sampling point or area?

Sampling Records

10. What sampling data do you retain and for how long?

11. Can you show a recent example where all sampling records (time, date, sampler, equipment used) were properly maintained?

12. How do you handle and document any deviations from the sampling plan or method?

13. Are environmental and transport conditions during sampling recorded? Where is this data stored?

14. Is there a procedure for identifying and describing the sample (e.g., ID number, volume, product name)?

Validation and Compliance

15. How do you ensure that sampling contributes to the integrity and validity of the final test or calibration result?