I asked the auditor “why?”

And it worked.

Had another customer audit today from a well known engine manufacturer. The auditor suggested that the melting shop and finishing line should be separated by a physical barrier like a fence or walkway railing. So I politely asked why do you think that is necessary? Once the surprise had passed he admitted that it wasn’t really, so long as all operators were working to the same standards of FOD prevention.

a result and really thanks to advice I have read on here. Cheers

 

Well done @andic ;
You and your organization have every right (and it's in the best interest of your teams/organizations), to professionally (tactful/polite), question/challenge input from auditors and/or customers, if/when their input is contrary to (or in some cases, actually detrimental to), your organization's approach and intended outputs.

Be well.