Sawgrass Nutra Labs
QMS Orientation
This document is provided for orientation and navigation purposes only.
It does not establish requirements and is not subject to audit.
1. Purpose of This Document
The purpose of this QMS Orientation is to help readers understand
how to navigate the Sawgrass Nutra Labs Quality Management System (QMS).
It explains where different types of information live and where they do not.
This document is intended for:
- New employees
- Non-quality personnel
- Leadership
- Auditors unfamiliar with the SNL QMS structure
2. What This Document Is Not
To avoid confusion, this document explicitly does not:
- Define quality requirements
- Establish governance rules
- Describe procedures or work instructions
- Contain regulatory text or interpretations
- Serve as evidence of compliance
All requirements, controls, and execution expectations reside in controlled QMS documents.
3. How the QMS Is Organized
The Sawgrass Nutra Labs QMS is organized into layers.
Each layer has a specific purpose and audit boundary.
- Quality Policy — States leadership’s commitment to quality
- Quality Charter — Defines authority and Quality Unit independence
- QMS Architecture & Overview — Explains how the system is designed
- Governance Documents (L0) — Define enterprise rules and controls
- Operating Model (L1) — Defines structure and responsibilities
- Quality Manual (L2) — Explains how the system operates
- Work Instructions (L3) — Define how tasks are performed
- Records (L4) — Provide evidence of execution
4. How to Use the QMS
When looking for information:
- Start high to understand intent and authority
- Move down to find structure and system operation
- Use procedures and instructions only for execution
If a document appears to contain content outside its intended purpose,
that is a signal to consult the Quality Unit.
5. Audit Expectations
Auditors may be provided this document as a courtesy to understand
how the QMS is organized.
However:
- This document is not audited
- This document does not replace required documentation
- This document does not define compliance expectations
6. Questions or Clarifications
Questions regarding QMS navigation, document purpose,
or appropriate use of QMS materials should be directed
to the Quality Unit.
Only controlled QMS documents define requirements.