IATF/TS 16949:2016
IATF/TS 16949:2016 is a global standard specifically designed for the automotive industry. It helps organizations improve their processes, ensuring product quality and customer satisfaction while minimizing waste and variation in the supply chain. This certification focuses on continual improvement, defect prevention, and reducing waste, aligning with the customer requirements efficiently and effectively.
The TS 16949 standard was jointly developed by the International Automotive Task Force (IATF) and was submitted to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for approval. It combines customer-specific requirements from the automotive sector and the general framework of ISO 9001, ensuring that automotive manufacturers meet a high standard of quality management.
What is IATF/TS 16949?
IATF/TS 16949 is a quality management standard for the automotive industry that emphasizes process efficiency and effectiveness. It helps organizations in the automotive sector to improve their overall process, reduce variation, and prevent defects, ensuring customer satisfaction. The certification is a benchmark for companies aiming to supply products in the automotive industry.
Who Are The TS?
The IATF is a group of automotive manufacturers and their respective trade associations that focus on improving the quality of automotive products globally. TS members include major automotive manufacturers such as BMW, Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Volkswagen, and others, as well as associations like AIAG (U.S.), ANFIA (Italy), and VDA (Germany).
Is IATF/TS 16949 Right For Me?
TS 16949 is applicable to any organization that manufactures components, parts, or assemblies for supply to the automotive industry. Whether you are involved in the manufacturing, fabricating, assembly, or providing finishing services like painting or plating, this standard is designed to enhance your quality management system.
What Are The Benefits of Certification?
- Customer Satisfaction: Deliver products that consistently meet customer requirements.
- Reduced Operating Costs: Continual improvement processes result in operational efficiencies and cost savings.
- Improved Stakeholder Relationships: Enhance your organization's reputation with customers, suppliers, and staff.
- Proven Business Credentials: Independent verification against a globally recognized industry standard provides credibility.
- Ability to Win More Business: Certification opens doors, especially in cases where procurement specifications require certification.
- International Recognition: Added confidence for global sourcing and business opportunities.
- Consistent Quality Approach: Standardized approach in the supply chain for supplier development.
Three Steps to Certification
Achieving IATF/TS 16949 certification requires three key steps:
- Step 1 - Application: Complete the Automotive Quote Request Form to define the scope of the assessment.
- Step 2 - Assessment: The assessment includes two mandatory visits: the Stage 1 audit to confirm your readiness, and the Stage 2 audit to evaluate your processes and compliance.
- Step 3 - Certification: Once the assessment is complete, certification is issued, followed by annual surveillance audits and a recertification audit every three years.
Initial Certification Audit
Stage 1
The Stage 1 audit verifies that your organization is ready for a full assessment. The assessor will review:
- Scope of activities and locations
- Records of internal audits
- Key performance indicators (KPIs) like customer satisfaction, complaints, on-time delivery, and employee motivation
Stage 2
The Stage 2 audit assesses whether your management system meets TS 16949 requirements. The assessor will:
- Audit processes and activities to confirm compliance
- Document the findings with objective evidence
- Produce a surveillance plan
Any major non-conformances identified during the audit must be addressed within 90 days for certification to be granted.