the
external auditor intends to rely upon specific internal audit work as a basis
for modifying the nature, timing and extent of his procedures, he should
review the internal auditor’s work, taking into account the following factors:Handbook of Auditing Pronouncements-I
SA 610 IV-384
(a) The scope of work and related audit programmes are adequate for the
external auditor’s purpose.
(b) The work was properly planned and the work of assistants was properly
supervised, reviewed, and documented.
(c) Sufficient appropriate evidence was obtained to afford a reasonable
basis for the conclusions reached.
(d) Conclusions reached are appropriate in the circumstances and any
reports prepared are consistent with the results of the work performed.
(e) Any exceptions or unusual matters disclosed by the internal auditor’s
procedures have been properly resolved.
The external auditor should document his conclusions in respect of the
specific work which he has reviewed.
14. The external auditor should also test the work of the internal auditor on
which he intends to rely. The nature, timing and extent of the external
auditor’s tests will depend upon his judgement as to the materiality of the
area concerned to the financial statements taken as a whole and the results
of his evaluation of the internal audit function and of the specific internal
audit work. His tests may include examination of items already examined by
the internal auditor, examination of other similar items, and observation of
the internal auditor’s procedures.