A planned, independent review that checks whether a management system conforms to its own requirements and to the relevant standard, and whether it is effective.
An internal audit is a structured examination, carried out by people independent of the area being audited, that tests whether the management system meets the standard's requirements and works as intended. It is a mandatory part of every ISO management system.
Findings are classified, typically as nonconformities or opportunities for improvement, and feed corrective action. Internal audit results are a required input to the management review.