Practical approaches to ISO 9000 certification for rubber and plastics processors

The background of the ISO 9000 series of quality standards is discussed, including where and why they originated. Registration statistics are provided for manufacturers in the United States and Ohio. Realistic benefits of certification are introduced, citing examples from reported case studies in the recent literature. The specifics of the ISO 9000 series are outlined, including the levels of certification and the key elements of ISO 9001, the most stringent standard. Fundamental requirements for management commitment, training, employee involvement, and implementation time and costs are also discussed. A listing is provided that cross-references registrars with standard industrial classification and typical services.<>