ISO 9001 • AS9100 • AS9120 • ISO 13485 • ISO 17025

Certification support

After Implementation…

Our team has the knowledge, skills and experience to interact with the Certification Body (CB) as a member of YOUR team to ensure that your company quickly, smoothly, and efficiently achieves certification.

AS A MEMBER OF YOUR TEAM WE

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coordinate selection of the best accredited Certification Body (CB) for your needs

  • We obtain quotes from accredited CBs and inquire about locality of the auditors (to reduce T&L expenses for you).
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coordinate the Scheduling and planning of the Certification audit with the CB

  • Ensure that all company affected personnel are informed of the “Audit Plan” and can accommodate the “Audit Schedule” (e.g., no conflicts exist  such as Trade Shows, Customer Visits, Vacations), and
  • Assist the CB Auditor with logistics (e.g., transportation, hotel, lunches).
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Host the certification audit as the designated “Guide” for the Auditor

  • Introducing the Auditor(s) to the staff that they will need to interview, and
  • Assisting the Auditor(s) in locating the required documentation and records.
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quickly clarify any misunderstandings that arise during the audit

  • Ensure that the auditor can easily verify how your company complies with the standard (90% of issues identified during an audit are misunderstandings).
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Respond to any issues identified during the audit

  • We address any nonconformities identified during the audit (including any containment activities) through a Corrective Action, and
  • We submit the response to the CB prior to the specified due date.
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Track the status of the certification

  • Ensuring that any additional actions are promptly taken and records submitted to the CB prior to due dates.
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Ensure that the next audit activity is scheduled (we also track these audits)

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Ensure proper use the certification marks (for advertising)

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Assist in helping you promote your certification (marketing)

After the auditor submits their report to the Certification Body (CB), it undergoes a “Technical Review”. Any nonconformities are required to be promptly addressed through a Corrective Action process. Companies unfamiliar with the certification process can experience delays (weeks or months) in receiving their certificate. To avoid these delays, we closely track the status of the report and promptly address any additional issues or concerns raised by the CB.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Aren't all Certification Bodies the Same?

No. There are MANY factors to consider when selecting a Certification Body (CB). For example:

  • Accreditation: There are MANY CBs operating that are NOT accredited. And many customers will NOT recognize certification by a non-accredited CB. Consequently, using a non-accredited CB can result in an expensive mistake.
  • Price: The total price for certification can vary significantly from one CB to the next.
  • Auditor Availability: Some CBs have only a dozen or so Auditors available. Larger CBs have hundreds of auditors… often with much greater availability.
  • Auditor Locality: Smaller CBs typically have a small number of auditors that are physically located in few locations. In contrast, the larger CBs have hundreds of auditor physically residing all over the country. If auditors are located near your facilities, this can greatly reduce T&L expenses associated with the certification process.
  • Auditor Language Barriers: Some CBs utilize foreign Auditors to reduce their costs. This frequently results in difficulty understanding questions during the audit… and the Auditor not understanding the answers!  Always ensure that the CB has native language speaking Auditors for your country.
  • Virtual Companies: Virtual companies without a physical office or manufacturing facility qualify for a 100% remote (virtual) audit. In addition, companies with specific functions that work remote (e.g., Sales, Procurement) can qualify for a “hybrid audit. In many cases, the company must specifically request these audits to be performed remotely. 

RRBG can guide you through each step to ensure a smooth and successful certification.

How do I obtain Quality Management System (QMS) Certification?

Achieving QMS certification (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100, ISO 13485, IATF 16949)  involves these steps:

  • Understand the Requirements: Familiarize yourself with ISO 9001 standards.
  • Develop a Quality Management System (QMS): Establish processes that align with ISO 9001 requirements.
  • Implementation & Training: Ensure your team is trained and that new procedures are effectively implemented.
  • Internal Audits & Management Review: Identify any gaps and make necessary improvements.
  • Certification Audit: A Certification Body (CB) will conduct an external audit to verify compliance.
    With RRBGQS as part of your team, we streamline this process to help your business achieve certification efficiently.

How long does it take to get certified?

The timeline for certification varies based on your company’s current level of compliance and readiness. On average:

  • ISO 9001 certification can take 3 to 6 months.
  • AS9100 certification may take 6 to 12 months due to its additional aerospace-specific requirements.
    Our team at RRBGQS can expedite the process by ensuring proper preparation and guidance.

Why should I choose RRBGQSS for certification assistance?

  • Expert Guidance: Our team has extensive experience working with Certification Bodies.
  • Time & Cost Efficiency: We streamline the process to minimize delays and expenses.
  • Personalized Support: We act as an extension of your team, ensuring a seamless certification journey.
  • Proven Success: Many businesses trust us to help them achieve and maintain their certifications.

Need more information? Contact RRBGQS today to start your certification journey!