As automobiles and their components grow increasingly complex with each advancement in technology, there may have never been a time before when it was so crucial for every member of a given automotive supply chain to show manufacturers their commitment to quality. Those companies that can display they‘re agile enough to anticipate changes, continually improve safety protocols and elevate their efficiencies will ultimately win the most business.
Smithers developed its IATF certification services to help you implement and maintain a QMS that meets the business needs of your organization and your customers.
The IATF 16949 standard was built by the International Automotive Task Force (IATF) in 1999, motivated by the desire to provide a single, globally accepted quality standard for the automotive industry — in particular, automotive suppliers. In 2002, then known as ISO/TS 16949, the certification was revised to reflect the additional requirements of ISO 9001:2000. While there is overlap between ISO 9001 and IATF 16949, there are also crucial differences. For instance, the latest revision, IATF 16949:2016, was developed with an unprecedented level of industry feedback and engagement.
Adhering to IATF 16949 standards affords a variety of advantages beyond the satisfaction of compliance. Achieving IATF 16949 certification for your organization can bring benefits like:
Powered by IATF certification, automotive quality management systems can positively impact your operation. IATF 16949 requirements not only drive quality but also help businesses reduce waste. IATF-certified companies have a true competitive edge over other suppliers.
Smithers is one of only a few United States-based auditing certification bodies approved by the IATF to certify companies to the IATF 16949:2016 standard. In addition, all recognized IATF auditors must undergo extensive training, testing and re-qualification in order to meet the rigorous requirements set by the IATF. Our team of professionals clearly understands IATF certification, meaning you get the full benefit of the latest information concerning IATF 16949:2016, including resources to help you get started and an IATF 16949 audit checklist.
When your company partners with Smithers on an IATF audit, our goal is to provide you with a high-character IATF auditor and objective, accurate, value-added feedback about your business’s performance, all while maintaining an open line of communication throughout the entire process.
To be eligible for IATF certification, a company must manufacture automotive production parts, services parts and/or accessory parts. Manufacturers of aftermarket parts are not eligible.
IATF 16949:2016 is the international quality management system standard for the automotive industry. It incorporates ISO 9001 and customer-specific requirements.
IATF certification entails a number of steps, including:
IATF 16949 requirements number into the hundreds, but each of the requirements falls into one of the following sections:
