Tips for passing a cannabis regulatory audit

Build a Company-Wide Compliance Culture

Passing an audit starts with your people. Compliance shouldn’t just be the quality manager’s responsibility; every employee should know their role in keeping the facility audit-ready.

How to Foster a Strong Culture of Compliance:

• Conduct regular training: Teach all staff about relevant SOPs and compliance rules.
  
  
• Hold routine meetings: Discuss any process changes, audit findings, or new regulations.
  
  
• Designate a compliance officer: Have a dedicated person overseeing compliance activities.
  
  

Quick Tip List:

• Document every training session and attendee.
  
  
• Review SOPs at least once a year.
  
  
• Create an open-door policy for staff to report issues.
  
  

Keep Detailed and Accurate Records

Regulators expect clear, organized documentation. Missing records are a red flag and can cause delays or penalties during an audit.

Key documents to maintain include:

• Batch production records: Details of how each product was made, ingredients used, quantities, and dates.
  
  
• Quality assurance (QA) test results: Lab results showing that products meet required potency and safety levels.
  
  
• Inventory logs: Up-to-date records tracking raw materials and finished goods.
  
  

Checklist for Record-Keeping:

• Back up files digitally and store hard copies securely.
  
  
• Use software to manage batch records and test results.
  
  
• Assign team members to double-check entries for errors.
  
  

Develop and Follow Clear SOPs

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are the backbone of compliance. Auditors often pick random processes to confirm if daily operations follow documented instructions.

Areas that need detailed SOPs:

• Cultivation and harvesting.
  
  
• Extraction and processing.
  
  
• Packaging and labeling.
  
  
• Cleaning and sanitization.
  
  

Best Practices:

• Write SOPs in simple, clear language.
  
  
• Train employees on SOPs for their specific roles.
  
  

Keep a log of SOP revisions to show auditors continuous improvements.