What is the difference between an inspection and an audit?

The terms overlap in casual use, but they describe different things. An inspection is typically a physical check of a specific item, system, or premises against a defined standard: is the fire extinguisher charged? Is the lift safe to operate? Is the food preparation area clean? An inspector looks at the thing itself and passes or fails it.

An audit is a systematic review of whether a process or management system is working correctly over time. An ISO 9001 audit checks whether your quality management system is being followed and documented; a health and safety audit checks whether your risk assessments, training records, and incident logs are complete and current. Inspections check assets; audits check systems.

Both produce reports with findings and deadlines. Both have expiry dates that need tracking. The practical difference matters when assigning who in the organisation is responsible for each one.