Common ISO Standards In Manufacturing

In a highly competitive business world, companies must continually produce durable and high-quality products to remain relevant. Many terminal companies work only with certified vendors, regardless of their location. Organizations need to be internationally approved to meet quality and safety standards to build customer trust and loyalty. Certification instills a sense of trust and provides evidence that a business has reached the highest standard in the industry. 

ISO standards assure quality products and services while minimizing defects and recalls. There are many types of ISO standards used across various industries that target specific aspects of production such as occupational hazards and custom safety. Read on to know the top ISO standards and how manufacturers and end users benefit from manufacturing industries standards. 

What Are ISO Standards In Manufacturing?

ISO standards are guidelines and specifications set by the International Organization for Standardization (IOS) that ensure that all aspects of a business meet the highest quality standards. These standards ensure accuracy, consistency in product quality, and end-user safety. ISO is a nongovernmental organization that has been in existence since 1946. It is made up of representatives from the national standards organization of member countries. 

ISO has more than 25,000 commercial, proprietary, and industrial standards that cover health, technology, agriculture, and food products. Note that the ISO itself does not certify companies. The organization develops the standard while a third party provides certification and issues certificates of confirmation of quality. Obtaining ISO certification for manufacturing does not end there. There are regular audits and surveillance to make sure that already certified organizations are not defaulting. 

What are the Standards Used in the Manufacturing Industry? 

ISO publishes standards for different industries and sectors. These standards ensure that products are manufactured and services are delivered in the right and most appropriate way. The following are the most common ISO standards for manufacturing companies. 

ISO 9001

It is the most common among the 1SO 9000 family. ISO 9001 specifies the guidelines for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving the quality management system in an organization. Being ‘ISO 90001 certified’ means that your business meets customer and legal requirements. This ISO certification for manufacturing is the reference for other standards and is globally recognized for quality management. 

There are a few misconceptions about ISO 9001. Many conclude it is strictly for big businesses and organizations. ISO 9001 also helps small businesses. It only sets the minimum quality standards that can be tailored to meet each organization’s needs. Implementing ISO 9001 helps to streamline operations, resolve complaints timely, and increase customer satisfaction. 

Though established in 1987, ISO 9001 undergoes revision regularly. The recent version, ISO 9001:2015 focuses on 7 Quality Management(QM) principles 

Customer Focus

The customer is the ‘boss’ in an organization and must be the main focus. Organizations must treat each customer differently, identify their needs, and exceed their expectations. This approach helps to build long-term relationships and enhance businesses’ reputations. 

Leadership 

Leadership is key to implementing this standard. They set up targets and provide enough resources to meet objectives efficiently. Strong leadership ensures effective communication across various levels of the organization. 

Engagement of People

Everyone involved must understand their roles and the consequences of their action. Members of the team must have a sense of belonging and be duly motivated. 

Process Approach 

A business may provide services, deliver products, or both. Organizations must have a clear understanding of interrelated processes or sub-activities needed to function. They define and assign responsibilities for each step. 

Improvement

ISO9001 standard emphasizes continuous improvement. Companies assess customers’ satisfaction and measure their performance using relevant KPIs. 

Evidence-based Decision Making

The organizational approach to decision-making should be factual and nothing less. Gathering and analyzing relevant data will minimize risks and produce better results. 

Relationship Management

Businesses must build quality relationships with important stakeholders such as suppliers, customers, investors, and banks. 

ISO 14001

ISO 14001 is a set of standards that specifies the guidelines for planning, implementing, reviewing, and maintaining a company’s environmental management system. It involves several aspects including using resources efficiently, proper waste disposal, and monitoring performance. ISO 14001 helps organizations provide services and carry out production effectively while protecting the environment and minimizing pollution. As a result, following ISOl 14001 produces a safer environment for the employees and the general population at large. 

Just like many manufacturing industries standards, ISO 14001 is based on the Plan To Do Act (PTDA) methodology. Organizations determine relevant environmental aspects and identify how their products or services interact with the environment. With this, they set targets and SMART objectives. Businesses then establish programs and policies, provide necessary resources, and train employees. The success of EMS depends on active involvement and communication among employees. The final step involves measuring and monitoring progress to ensure that the environmental objectives are met. Based on the results, a company identifies loopholes, makes corrections, and moves EMS forward. 

IATF 16949

IATF 16949 is a globally recognized standard that establishes QMS requirements for the automotive sector. The first edition was ISO/TS 16949 developed by the International Automotive Task Force (IATF). It is a technical specification that has a limited alignment with ISO 9001:2015.

The most current IATF 16949 aims to prevent waste and reduce the incidence of defects and variations in all stages of the automotive product development cycle. However, IATF 16949 cannot stand alone and is based on the ISO 9001 standard. The seven quality management principles also drive IATF 16949 as it helps automotive organizations achieve sustained success. 

Note that the IATF group updates this manufacturing industry standard regularly to ensure it meets the needs of the automotive industry promptly. There are over 70,000 organizations that are IATF 16949 certified with Zintilon standing at the forefront. This new edition focuses on continuous improvement and aims to meet end users’ requirements adequately and efficiently. 

ISO 13485

ISO 13485 specifies customers and regulatory requirements for organizations that design, manufacture, distribute, or install medical devices and associated services. Though it can stand alone, it is better when used in conjunction with ISO 9001. While ISO 13485 certifies that an organization implements and maintains a quality system, ISO 9001 ensures the organization undergoes ongoing improvement. ISO 13485 helps medical manufacturers identify and avoid risks early, and produce safe products resulting in better customer satisfaction. 

AS9100D

This is the standard for QMS in organizations that design products or provide services in the aviation, space, and defense sectors. It emphasizes product safety, and quality services and accounts for customer needs. The requirements of AS9100D complements ISO 9001:2015. Using both standards ensures that organizations comply with both general and industry-specific requirements. 

In addition to this general aerospace standard, there are more specific ones; AS9110 and AS9120. AS9110 focuses on repairs and maintenance of aircraft while AS9120 provides requirements for organizations that assemble, distribute, and resell aerospace products. AS9100 certification gives a company global recognition as a reputable supplier. It reduces waste, cuts operating costs, and allows organizations to make data-driven decisions. 

Why ISO Certification is Required in Manufacturing Companies 

The process of obtaining the different types of ISO certification can be rigorous and can go on for years. However, it shows that organizations have taken their time to meet global standards. ISO certification is not compulsory but is a necessary requirement. The following are some reasons it is important to get ISO certification for manufacturing companies

Gain Competitive Edge

ISO certification for manufacturing is important if organizations want to stand out in both local and international markets. When a terminal company is considering the supplier to use, there is no doubt that the certified one will have an edge. It shows that the organization is committed to quality and has built a management system that a non-ISO-certified company is devoid of. 

Furthermore, ISO certification plays a role in international trade and partnerships. Many big aerospace organizations mandate certification for third-party companies before collaborating and signing business contracts.

Increase Sales and Profits

Many organizations consider the process of attaining industrial standards pricey and time-consuming. However, think of it as an investment with a high ROI. ISO certification helps to boost sales and increase revenue in many ways. It improves the performance and confidence of employees. They feel more fulfilled knowing that they are ditching out nothing short of quality. 

Additionally, the customers have more trust because of the global quality recognition without minding the size of the organization. They not only continue to use certified products and services, they market for the company for free and bring in new customers. This will increase profit level and the business will run smoothly without glitches. 

Government and Legislation Recognition

Though ISO is a nongovernmental body, the government and legislative bodies give reverence to it. Many notable organizations including WHO and the UN work in cooperation with ISO for manufacturing companies. Additionally, many ISO members are also involved in lawmaking in their respective countries. 

Hence, these standards often align with regulatory requirements. This lessens the time it will take for government-based inspections and audits. 

Benefits of ISO Certifications for Manufacturing Companies and Customers

ISO Certification benefits both the manufacturers and end customers. 

For Manufacturers 

Here are a few advantages manufacturers and producers get from being ISO-certified

Strive for Improvement 

ISO standards for manufacturing companies give room for continuous improvement. They evaluate their operations regularly, discover areas that are lagging, and work on them. As a result, there is an improvement in the quality of products and services rendered. 

Improved Workplace Safety and Health

Implementing industrial standards helps to protect employees from occupational hazards and injuries. ISO 45001 prevents death and ill health in the workplace. This standard provides a safer and healthier environment to work in.

More Consistency

ISO standards for manufacturing industries ensure consistency in all aspects of production. This ensures that products are always of high quality and prevents the incidence of recalls. 

Expanded Market Access

ISO manufacturing standards give organizations global recognition. It’s like a badge showing that your products and services are tested and trusted in all corners of the Earth. It paves the way for local industries to enter the global market for new business opportunities 

For Customers 

End users get the following benefits from using ISO-certified products and services 

Superior Quality

Implementing ISO standards ensures that customers get the best quality products possible. Identifying potential errors maintains quality and prevents defects. This leads to increased customer satisfaction, trust, and loyalty. 

Better Product Performance 

Quality control and management ensure that products are working the way they should. Organizations study the changing needs and preferences of the end users. With this, they can strategize and optimize their processes and operations. 

Enhanced Suppliers’ Relationship

Customers will always choose to work with ISO-certified companies. When customers receive value for their money, they will always come for more. Implementing manufacturing standards prevents long talks, improves performance in the supply chain, and builds stronger relationships. 

Conclusion

When products don’t work as they should or services are not provided in the right way, it signifies that standards may be absent. ISO standards for manufacturing industries set specifications that ensure final products are of high quality, prevent accidents in workplaces, and provide a cleaner environment. When seeking to work with third-party companies like Zintilon, one of the most important things to check for is ISO certification for manufacturing.

Zintilon is proud to be ITAF16949: 2016, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, ISO 13485:2016, and AS9100D certified prototype manufacturer. We are committed to providing quality prototypes at competitive prices while making the world a safer place. We protect our customers’ data and implement best security practices.

Our services include precision parts manufacturing, low volume, and mass production. We are fast and reliable. Are you looking for an efficient prototype manufacturer? Reach out today and talk to our experts. 

FAQs

Is ISO a personal standard?

No, ISO is not a personal standard. ISO certifications are not for individuals. Rather, organizations are certified to meet quality requirements and specifications. 

What are other common certifications in manufacturing?

In addition to ISO, there are other recognized standards for manufacturing industries. These include UL certification, RoHS, and CE mark/UKCA mark. Many of these are regional standards and product-specific. For instance, the UKCA mark on a product means that it is safe for use in the UK. On the other hand, the CE mark is usually on products that have passed standard health and safety regulations in Europe. 

How can an organization obtain ISO certification?

• The first step is for an organization to choose the appropriate standard and get familiar with the requirements.
• The organization then determines what they need to meet the standard and develop a plan.
• Train employees and implement the system.
• Conduct an internal audit and review to check if the system is working.
• Select an accredited body to carry out both document review and on-site certification audit.
• If satisfied, the body grants the organization an ISO certificate.

Note that there will be yearly surveillance audits and recertification audits every 3 years