Automotive: international standard 16949 undergoes revision
The new version of the international voluntary standard IATF 16949 has just been published. The requirements of this international standard for quality management in the automotive sector are now aligned with those of ISO 9001 version 2015. Certified companies, you have until September 14, 2018 to make a success of your transition.
The revision of this best-selling international standard was initiated by the IATF (International Automotive Task Force) as part of its close collaboration with ISO (International Organization for Standardization). At the end of 2014, this body set up a specific working group made up of representatives of global automakers and professional organizations of European and American automotive suppliers.
Together and by consensus, they defined new requirements aligned with the voluntary international standard ISO 9001 version 2015.
What’s new?
Now entitled IATF 16949:2016, the voluntary international standard remains the benchmark for all players in the automotive industry wishing to implement a quality management system. Major changes have been made.
Previously, the ISO/TS 16949 standard brought together the requirements of ISO 9001 plus requirements specific to the automotive industry,” explains Alban Bellicaud, AFNOR Certification Product Manager. From now on, this new version is lighter, and no longer provides the basic requirements of ISO 9001 in the text”.
For automotive industries committed to a quality management system approach, the use of the voluntary ISO 9001 version 2015 standard is therefore becoming an essential prerequisite. As for IATF 16949, it is becoming a must-have supplement for all manufacturers, suppliers and service providers.
Among other new features, the 2016 version of the standard highlights requirements directly linked to developments and issues in the automotive market.
“For example, industry professionals will have to meet requirements in terms of embedded software, corporate ethical responsibility, and enhanced product traceability in line with regulatory changes ,” emphasizes Alban Bellicaud.
Finally, the standard adopts the HLS (High Level Structure) model, which is the common structure for all management system standards.
What are the implications for certified companies?
Are you ISO/TS 16949 certified? Don’t panic! AFNOR Certification will support you in your transition.
” All certified companies have until September 14, 2018 to upgrade and be certified to the new version of the standard. From January to September 2017, companies wishing to do so can begin this transition and be audited according to the new requirements. This is what we call voluntary transition. However, from October 2017 to September 2018, companies will enter the mandatory transition phase, and the audit will be based on IATF 16949:2016. “says Alban Bellicaud.
In the coming weeks, AFNOR Certification will be proposing a transition guide for all certified companies.
Would you like to understand these changes and prepare for the transition?
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with your AFNOR Certification contact now to anticipate this transition period.
The AFNOR group offers you a specific training course to help you understand the impact of this revision on your quality management system, and to anticipate its deployment in your organization. Sessions are available in Paris, Nancy and Marseille. Sign up now!
> Find out more about ISO/TS 16949 certification…
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