In our first series of blogs we looked at the introduction of IATF 16949:2016 (IATF), its relationship to ISO 9001:2015 and to the customer.
In this blog, the 3rd in the series, we will look at how the IATF addresses the importance of Leadership and the engagement of people.
Leadership
The clauses relating to Top Management Responsibilities is very much the same in ISO 9001. However, IATF requires more in-depth policies such as an upgrade of your existing policy to include the “Automotive Quality Management System” (AUQMS). Also, to incorporate an 'Anti-Bribery Policy', 'Employee Code of Conduct Policy' and a 'Whistle-Blowing Policy'. Top management will also need to review the effectiveness and efficiency of the product through the management review, so a procedure would be recommended.
Roles and Responsibilities will need to be upgraded to include “Process Owners”, these shall identify persons responsible for managing the organisation’s processes and related outputs. These process owners need to be competent to perform their roles. The standard also dictates that the AUQMS must state a responsible person who can stop the production line but using the correct closedown procedure.
Engagement of People
External factors such as suppliers could be a significant risk for a business, as if a delivery schedule is not met then the customer will not receive the product in time (the worst scenario. Well, the worst scenario is that the part is not-compliant with requirements). The standard requires the business to identify the risk in each key operating procedure and compile a contingency plan. This will include supplier performance, supplier failure or non-conforming products. If any of these issues are reported, the customer is to be told as part of this contingency plan. This is for businesses to have plans in place so that the production line is not affected. These areas of risks are to be communicated with staff so that the employee knows what to do in case of a non-conforming supplier or product.
If you have any questions relating to IATF: 16949 or would like to arrange for one of our experienced consultants for a no obligation chat about IATF: 16949 please do not hesitate to get in touch.
By Oliver Leaney
AvISO Consultancy – Part of a series entitled: Introducing IATF 16949:2016.
