Expert answer · reviewed 20 August 2026
What evidence proves a corrective action is closed?
Short answerA corrective action is properly closed when there is objective evidence that the agreed work was completed, an authorised person has verified it, and an effectiveness check shows the original problem and root cause are controlled without creating a new risk.
Completion is not verification
An invoice, photograph or tick box may show activity, but it does not necessarily show that the control is effective. Verification should compare the result with the acceptance criteria defined when the action was raised.
Retain a defensible evidence chain
Keep the source finding, decisions, owner, dates, completion evidence, verifier identity, effectiveness result and any reopening or escalation history together.
Practical checklist
- Define acceptance criteria before work starts
- Capture dated objective completion evidence
- Use independent verification where required
- Record effectiveness and reopen failed controls