MedAccred virtual auditor training helps overcome challenges to global Covid travel restrictions

MedAccred has adapted its approach to training its auditors in response to the global pandemic-related travel restrictions.

To address the physical restrictions imposed by limited-entry national borders due to COVID, MedAccred is training some of its new auditors virtually via livestream video while the lead auditor trainer conducts an in-person audit from the factory floor. In their first training audit, auditor trainees virtually observe a lead auditor conduct an in-person audit at a manufacturing facility. The trainee then performs the next two in-person manufacturing process audits while being observed virtually by a lead auditor.

The primary method for auditor training continues to be in-person training within manufacturing facilities, but this new virtual training enables MedAccred to develop a strong regional capability in areas that continue to have travel restrictions in place.

This innovative training approach ensures continuity of auditing procedures and uninterrupted critical oversight across supply chains in the medical device industry during a period of disruption for global manufacturing as a whole.

An audit is conducted by a MedAccred lead auditor at the Trademark Plastics manufacturing facility in California, while live stream video is relayed to MedAccred auditor trainees in India and China.

Trademark Plastics in Riverside, California, was the first MedAccred Plastics Injection Molding accredited company to volunteer to host the virtual auditor training for new MedAccred auditors located in China and India.

Bryan Barrera, Chief Operating Officer for Trademark Plastics, said: “Trademark Plastics Inc. has been honored to assist with virtually training new auditors for the MedAccred program. We’re proud to contribute to the global standardization of medical device manufacturing which will result in overall enhanced quality and patient safety. It’s more important now, during this pandemic, to maintain our focus on high standards throughout the industry.”

 Connie Conboy, Director for MedAccred, said: “During this period of disruption, it’s critically important for the MedAccred program to provide continuity of supply-chain oversight to our OEMs all over the world This ensures they can maintain the highest quality standards throughout the duration of the pandemic and beyond. We have pivoted to provide that critical global oversight, in spite of travel restrictions and closed borders, which will ultimately result in enhanced safety for patients.”