Safe Quality Food (SQF) Certified Practice Exam

What action must a site take if it receives a “C--Complies” rating?

1. Proceed directly to relaunch

2. Undergo a surveillance audit

3. Request an appeal

4. Wait for the next audit cycle

The correct answer is: Undergo a surveillance audit

A “C--Complies” rating indicates that the site has met the minimum requirements of the SQF code but has identified areas that require improvement. This rating signifies that while the site is compliant, there are opportunities for enhancement in its processes or systems. Undergoing a surveillance audit is essential because it allows the site to continuously monitor compliance and progress on the identified areas of improvement. The surveillance audit serves as a proactive measure to ensure that the site maintains its quality standards and addresses any shortcomings. This type of audit typically occurs between certification audits, allowing for regular oversight and prompting the site to implement necessary changes before the next formal evaluation. By choosing to undergo a surveillance audit, a site demonstrates a commitment to quality and continuous improvement, which is a pivotal aspect of maintaining SQF certification. Other actions, such as proceeding to relaunch, requesting an appeal, or simply waiting for the next audit cycle, do not directly address the compliance issues and may delay necessary improvements. These options do not facilitate immediate corrective actions or support ongoing adherence to quality standards, which underscores the importance of conducting a surveillance audit after a “C--Complies” rating.