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Chapter 2

The Professional Practices Framework: Ethics and Standards of Practice

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Chapter 2 Learning Objectives Understand the structure of the Professional Practices

Framework and type of guidance it provides. Apply the professional guidance in the practice of internal

auditing. Use the Professional Practices Framework to address issues

which arise in internal audit practice. Understand the ethical principles and behavioral norms relevant

to the profession and practice of internal auditing. Identify the essential characteristics of functions, organizations,

and individuals for the performance of effective internal audit activities.

Understand the nature of internal audit activities and the criteria against which performance of these activities can be measured.

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The Professional Practices FrameworkComponents:

Code of ethics Attribute standards Performance standards Implementation standards Practice advisories (non mandatory guidance) Other guidance (non mandatory guidance)

See Exhibit 2-1

Copyright: Internal Auditing: Assurance and Consulting Services, by The Institute of Internal Auditors Research Foundation, 247 Maitland Avenue, Altamonte Springs, Florida 32701-4201 U.S.A.

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Code of EthicsComponents: Principles Rules of conduct

The rules describe 12 behavioral norms that the internal auditor should follow to put the Principles into practice.

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Attribute StandardsDefinition: Describe the defining characteristics of organizations, as well as

the individuals performing internal audit services.

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Performance StandardsDefinition: Describe the nature of internal audit services and provide quality

criteria against which the performance of these services can be measured.

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Implementation StandardsDefinition:

Apply to specific types of internal audit services The framework envisions potentially numerous sets of

Implementation Standards, such as standards for specialized industries

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Copyright: Internal Auditing: Assurance and Consulting Services, by The Institute of Internal Auditors Research Foundation, 247 Maitland Avenue, Altamonte Springs, Florida 32701-4201 U.S.A.

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Breaches of the Code of Ethics Censure Suspension of the membership and/or certification Expulsion and/or revocation of certification

IIA’s Ethics Committee

Violation of any of the Code of Ethics will preclude the delivery of value addes and, thus, effective internal audit services.

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The Attributes Standards Purpose, authority, and responsibility - the function should have

a charter that states the function’s purpose, authority, and responsibilities and specifies the types of assurance and consulting activities provided.

Independence and objectivity Independence – the freedom of conditions that threaten objectivity or the

appearance of objectivity Objectivity – an unbiased mental attitude (not to subordinate their judgment)

Proficiency and due professional care Proficiency – knowledge and skills for the function to fulfill its responsibilities Due professional care – applying the care and skill expected of a reasonably

prudent and competent internal auditor

Copyright: Internal Auditing: Assurance and Consulting Services, by The Institute of Internal Auditors Research Foundation, 247 Maitland Avenue, Altamonte Springs, Florida 32701-4201 U.S.A.

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The Performance Standards Managing the internal audit function Nature of work Engagement planning Performing the engagement Communicating results Monitoring progress Management’s acceptance of risks

Copyright: Internal Auditing: Assurance and Consulting Services, by The Institute of Internal Auditors Research Foundation, 247 Maitland Avenue, Altamonte Springs, Florida 32701-4201 U.S.A.

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The Practice Advisories Non mandatory Provide more specific guidance

Copyright: Internal Auditing: Assurance and Consulting Services, by The Institute of Internal Auditors Research Foundation, 247 Maitland Avenue, Altamonte Springs, Florida 32701-4201 U.S.A.

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