ISO 9001:2000 SMALL BUSINESS IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAMME
Most nonconformities raised at
certification audits are due the lack of or incorrect implementation of the
documented Quality Management System (QMS). This programme takes place over five
months including assisting with the preparation of the company’s
quality management system documentation and is designed to help avoid the pit
falls.
The programme consists of a
series of site visits to prepare the staff of the company for implementation of
the documentation, taking ownership, review and audit. It will also help the
company to maintain the QMS and establish long lasting and
continual improvement. Certification Body Auditors normally look for at
least three months of
implementation of a new documented quality system.
Preparation
for the external audit is an important part of the programme, so the company
know, what to expect, what the auditors are looking for and how to respond
positively to any non-conformities raised by the Certification Body Auditors.
This approach applies equally to both the existing ISO 9000:1994 and the new
standard ISO 9001:2000.
THE
PROGRAMME
Month 1
The first visit includes a
half day awareness session designed to assist the understanding of ISO 9000,
what implementation involves and what part everyone in the company has to play.
The second part of the day involves looking at the systems /documentation in
place in order to prepare a draft Quality Manual, Quality Policy, Quality
Objectives and mandatory documented procedures.
Two days are then spent
preparing the Quality Manual, core processes, mandatory procedures and outline
procedure structure for the company.
Month 2.
A process mapping workshop is run at the company to introduce the concepts of both core and support business processes. This will enable company staff to understand and map their own processes, and integrate these into the QMS.
Month 3.
This visit would be to assist the practical implementation of the documented QMS. This involves help with responsibilities/authorities of the Quality Manager, Management Representative and Document Controller. It also concentrates on explaining the difficult areas of the standard e.g. Corrective and Preventive Action and Continual Improvement.
Month 4.
A one-day gap-analysis is conducted to establish the extent of implementation of the documented QMS after two months. This will provide training for the internal auditors in practical audit techniques and ensure effective preparation for the external audit.
Month 5.
Preparation for Audit Day
A half day workshop helps
staff at all levels understand, quality management systems and their roles
within the QMS, what the auditors look for, preparation for audit day, how to
respond to non-conformities and the main causes of non-conformities found on
external audits.
Management
Review
The first management review is
facilitated to ensure that the review process is understood by management and
how continual improvement can be established. It will help to reinforce
ownership of the Quality Management System and allow the company to take full
advantage of the requirements of ISO 9000.
RESOURCES
We use qualified Lead
Assessors who also work for Certification Bodies to conduct the programme. They
have practical experience of carrying out 100’s of certification audits and
consultancy in all kinds of industries including manufacturing and service.
ONGOING CONSULTANCY SUPPORT
This could include internal audit, assistance with corrective action and other support as required by the company.
For further information please contact: bprees@bprconsulting.co.uk