PECB ISO-IEC-42001-Lead-Auditor Exam - Topic 4 Question 11 Discussion

Actual exam question for PECB's ISO-IEC-42001-Lead-Auditor exam

Question #: 11
Topic #: 4

[All ISO-IEC-42001-Lead-Auditor Questions]

In which situations does an auditor have the right to decline the audit mandate?

AWhen clear problems exist related to the experience and language proficiency of the auditee's employees

BWhen the allocated time for conducting the audit does not allow for a thorough assessment of the management system

CWhen technical experts have not been assigned to participate in the audit

DWhen the auditee is unwilling to provide documented information in advance

Show Suggested Answer

Suggested Answer: B

Auditors have the right and responsibility to ensure that audits are conducted effectively. According to ISO 19011:2018 and ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015, if the audit time allocated is insufficient to conduct a comprehensive and thorough audit, the auditor may refuse or request modification of the assignment.

This helps maintain audit integrity, quality, and professional due care.

ISO/IEC 17021-1:2015, Clause 9.1.4 -- Audit duration

ISO 19011:2018, Clause 5.3.2 -- Audit planning responsibilities

PECB ISO/IEC 42001 Lead Auditor Guide -- Chapter: Auditor Rights and Responsibilities

===========

by Glory at Mar 02, 2026, 08:44 PM

Limited Time Offer

25%

27 days ago

I think option B makes sense because if there's not enough time, how can we ensure a proper audit? But I'm not entirely sure if that's the only reason we can decline.

upvoted 0 times

...