Beyond Compliance: Coaching Readiness in My Second CQMS Audit
I recently completed my second assignment as a surveillance auditor for the Contractor Quality Management System (CQMS), conducting an Initial Certification Audit for a G7 contractor. As a G7 specialist contractor in sewerage reticulation and pipe jacking, this was a significant step for them, as it marked their first experience seeking third-party certification.
A Shift in Strategy: From "Comply-or-Not" to "Ready-or-Not"
Because this was the company's first time undergoing such a rigorous assessment, I made a conscious effort to shift my auditing approach. Rather than focusing solely on a strict "comply-or-not" checklist, I focused on their "readiness" for the long-term journey of maintaining a quality management system.
This involved providing guidance and briefings on the nuances of the Construction Industry Standard (CIS) 29:2021, particularly in areas where the team was less experienced, such as:
Management Review Meetings (MRM): Briefing the team on how to conduct and record effective MRMs before their next audit cycle.
Internal Audit Protocols: Guiding them on establishing a robust internal audit program, as they were initially unaware of these specific system requirements.
Evidence Compilation: Helping the team understand how to document results, from leadership commitment and organization charts to project-specific records like Request for Inspection (RFI) forms and Certificate of Practical Completion (CPC).
The Importance of Management Capability
A standout feature of this audit was the active involvement of Top Management. The company’s Managing Director (MD), was present for both the opening and closing sessions on 25 June 2026.
In my closing remarks, I emphasized to the leadership team that this certification is not just about "having the documents ready." Its true value lies in evaluating management’s capability to oversee and implement a quality system that ensures consistency across all construction activities.
Sector-Specific Rigor: CIS 29 vs. ISO 9001
This experience further highlighted how CIS 29:2021 differs from generic standards like ISO 9001. Being sector-specific, it requires verification of critical construction management elements, such as:
Competent Personnel: Verifying that staff hold CIDB-recognized competencies, such as the Sijil Kecekapan Pengurusan for water supply and sewerage systems.
Legal Compliance: Ensuring valid SPAN approval permits (e.g., Type C1) and current CIDB G7 registrations.
Material Quality: Checking that materials—such as steel bars—are procured from suppliers with valid PPS certifications to ensure they meet industry standards.
Successful Outcome
It is truly rewarding to be part of the first group of external auditors helping local contractors elevate their management standards. It isn’t just about the certificate on the wall; it’s about building the organizational capability that drives the future of our industry.
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