A factory audit gives you a comprehensive view of how a supplier operates. It answers three basic questions: Can the factory make your product consistently? Does it treat people and the environment responsibly? And will your goods be secure from tampering or theft? Here is a concise checklist covering process quality, social responsibility and supply chain security.
Process & capability
Check that the factory performs the core processes your product requires. For example, if you need die-casting, machining and powder coating, those departments should be on site. Review the quality management system: look for a quality manual, standard operating procedures, and an organization chart showing quality control staff. Verify incoming quality control logs, in-process inspections and final inspection records. Ask for equipment lists and calibration certificates for critical tools. Observe how raw materials are stored, how they are identified and whether they are segregated by status (accepted, on hold, rejected). Good factories track defects and rework and use first-article approvals to catch problems early.
People & safety
A responsible factory follows labour laws and protects worker health. Check time cards and payroll records to see if employees work excessive overtime and whether wages meet local minimums. Confirm that all workers are at least the legal age and that there is no forced labour. Assess the working environment: aisles should be clear, emergency exits accessible, and fire extinguishers charged and available. Equipment should have guards, and workers should wear personal protective equipment when needed. If the factory provides dormitories or meals, inspect those for cleanliness and safety.
Security & supply chain integrity
If you ship to markets that require supply chain security (such as the U.S. Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism program), evaluate how the factory protects goods. Check perimeter fencing, locked warehouses, and visitor controls. Containers should be inspected and sealed according to documented procedures; seal numbers must be recorded and verified at loading. Areas where finished goods are stored should be separate from raw materials and accessible only to authorized staff. For high-value products, ask if the factory runs employee background checks and uses CCTV cameras.
Follow-up and continuous improvement
An audit is not a pass-or-fail test; it’s a tool for improvement. Score each finding and prioritize corrective actions. Assign deadlines and responsible parties. Review progress at regular intervals and update your audit program when you change products, increase volumes or add new processes. Factories that welcome audits and implement recommendations tend to deliver more consistent quality and fewer surprises.
Conclusion
A structured factory audit covering process, social compliance and security gives you insight beyond sample quality or unit price. By using this checklist, you protect your brand, encourage ethical practices and ensure your shipments move safely through the supply chain.