Field Sampling and Measurement Organization (FSMO) Internal Audit Training

Synopsis

The course is designed to provide Field Sampling and Measurement Organizations (FSMOs) with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to plan, conduct, document, and close internal audits. The course is based on the TNI FSMO , Volume 1 2014 and 2024 Standards, but non-accredited FSMOs will also find the course very beneficial.

This course focuses on the application of internal auditing principles for field sampling and measurement activities, including quality management system and technical requirements.. Participants will learn how to evaluate conformance through document review, staff interviews, and observation of field activities, identify and document nonconformances, and verify the effectiveness of corrective actions.

The course content aligns directly with TNI FSMO Volume 1 internal audit expectations and prepares participants to support compliance, continuous improvement, and readiness for external assessments. Successful completion includes a comprehensive examination covering both quality management and technical audit elements.

This course includes both self-paced learning (approximately 2.5 hours) and a live webinar component (3 hours – course, breakout and exam). Parts 1 and 2 are delivered as pre-recorded modules and must be completed before the live online webinar portion where Parts 3 and 4 will be presented. Students are required to complete the online test covering Parts 1 and 2 by 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time on May 28, 2026. All course materials are provided upon registration in the course: Handout, Test, Part 1 Webcast, and Part 2 Webcast.

Examples of changes that need to be managed in an environmental lab include:
• Relocating a laboratory
• Implementing a new LIMS
• Implementing new methods and instrumentation
• Staffing changes
• Laboratory renovations.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

Internal Audit Fundamentals

  • Define internal auditor competence requirements, including knowledge, skills, education, and training
  • Apply core internal audit principles, including independence, evidence-based decision-making, and risk-based approaches
  • Understand the importance of internal audits as they apply to your quality system

Audit Planning and Preparation

  • Plan and organize an internal audit based on FSMO activities, risk, and previous audit results
  • Identify audit resources, audit team considerations, and audit methods (onsite and offsite)
  • Use checklists appropriately, including documenting references, auditor notes, and objective evidence

Conducting the Internal Audit

  • Conduct effective interviews using open-ended, probing, and closed questions while avoiding interview contamination
  • Observe field sampling and field measurement activities to evaluate conformance with SOPs, SAPs, and QAPPs
  • Evaluate implementation of management and technical system elements, including:
    • SOPs
    • Records and documentation practices
    • Personnel qualifications and training
    • Equipment calibration and traceability
    • Sample handling, storage, and documentation
    • Sampling and Measurement results and reporting requirements

Documentation and Records

  • Identify required internal audit records, including scope, findings, and corrective actions
  • Apply proper documentation practices, including corrections, traceability, and record retention requirements
  • Verify that records support objective evidence of conformance

Nonconformances and Corrective Action

  • Write clear, objective non-conformances that cite the applicable requirement and supporting evidence
  • Evaluate corrective actions, root cause analysis, and effectiveness
  • Determine when an internal audit may be considered closed based on documented evidence and management review

Audit Reporting and Follow-Up

  • Prepare an internal audit report using a controlled template
  • Ensure audit reports include required elements such as staff interviews, documents reviewed, findings, and conclusions
  • Verify that the management system is effectively implemented and maintained following the audit
  • see improved evaluation of batch quality control and result validity
  • have improved troubleshooting skills for common BOD issues, including blank depletion, poor GGA recovery, and insufficient sample depletion
  • be able to perform BOD calculations, including seeded and unseeded samples
  • have enhanced consistency and defensibility of reported BOD results
  • use guidance on appropriate training frequency for new staff, procedures, instruments, and annual requirements
  • TNI training requirements, including documentation expectations
  • be able to develop stronger onboarding processes that support analyst competence and confidence from day one
  • improve safety awareness, ethical decision-making, and data integrity practices
  • consistently implement initial and ongoing method training, SOP review, and competency assessment
  • to see enhanced continuity during staff turnover and smoother adoption of new methods and equipment

    • Audience

    This course is designed for FSMO Quality Managers, FSMO Internal Auditors, FSMO Technical and Supervisory personnel responsible for internal audits, and FSMOs seeking or maintaining TNI FSMO Vol 1 accreditation.

    Digital Badges Associated with this Course

    None


    Fees

    $135 for TNI members
    $160 for non members

    Group rates are available: Each purchased webcast is to be viewed by only one student. If you would like multiple viewers, separate purchases must be made. A group rate of $650 for TNI members or $775 for non-members is available for groups of 5-10 students at a single location.

    No certificates are automatically provided with this training. A Certificate of Completion (CoC) ($30 per person) or Certificate of Attendance (CoA) ($20 per person) may be purchased. A passing score of at least 70% must be received on the exam in order to receive CEUs and a CoC. Scores of less than 70% will receive a Certificate of Attendance at no reduced fee. For a CoA you will not need to take the quiz and you will not receive CEUs. To receive your certificate, contact Paul Junio at [email protected] with date of purchase and date of training completion. See FAQs for additional information.






    Start Date

    05/29/2026 11:00 AM

    Length

    5.5 hours

    CEUs

    0.6

    Presented By:

    Katie Strothman

    Katie Strothman has over 25 years of experience in environmental laboratory operations, quality systems, and regulatory compliance within drinking water and wastewater testing programs.

    She currently supports laboratory operations at Eurofins Drinking Water & Wastewater Southeast, LLC (Laboratory Director), with responsibilities focused on data quality, process improvement, and ensuring compliance with state and regulatory requirements. She also serves in leadership roles within TNI and NEFAP programs and as an assessor for Accreditation Bodies.

    Katie is known for implementing practical, efficient systems that improve consistency, reduce risk, and support defensible data during assessments and regulatory review.