Quality in the railway industry – important for everyone who uses railways and for the success of your business
ISO TS 22163 (IRIS) from the European industry association UNIFE (Union des Industries Ferroviaires Européennes) aims to achieve a uniform standard for suppliers and thus the best possible quality throughout the entire manufacturing chain.
Based on ISO 9001, it is aimed exclusively at companies in the railway industry that fall into one of the three member classes of the IRQB (Industrial Rail Quality Board). These include ‘operators’, i.e. operating companies such as Deutsche Bahn, ‘integrators’ (manufacturers of trains and locomotives) and suppliers who provide manufacturers with the necessary components.
These companies must have a focus on production, maintenance or research & development in the railway sector, thus emphasising the industrial focus of the standard.
The standard is not intended for companies whose core business lies exclusively in sales and service activities. Such companies are certified according to ISO 9001.
Benefits of Certification
Recognised internationally
IRIS certification is established worldwide in the railway industry and signals the highest quality and reliability to customers and partners at a glance.
New markets
Many major railway manufacturers and operators require IRIS certification from their suppliers. Certified suppliers secure better opportunities in tenders and international projects.
Efficiency
Many major railway manufacturers and operators require IRIS certification from their suppliers. Certified suppliers secure better opportunities in tenders and international projects.
Customer satisfaction
Improved quality and reliability mean customers benefit from smooth processes and long-lasting products, which strengthens long-term business relationships.
Market advantage
IRIS certification builds trust and clearly differentiates companies from non-certified competitors. This enables companies to expand their market position in a targeted manner.
Continuous improvement
Regular audits and structured alignment with best practices promote continuous development. Companies remain future-proof and competitive in the long term.
Certification requires full implementation of the quality management system within the company in accordance with the requirements of the standard.
Before starting the IRIS certification process, you must first apply for approval via the central IRIS portal of UNIFE. Companies in the railway industry that are active in the areas of research and development, production or maintenance can register on the portal. Here you can also select the certification company of your choice (AFNOR Certification).
As a DAkkS-accredited certification body, we are happy to combine your ISIS audit with audits for other management systems, such as environmental management according to ISO 14001, energy management according to ISO 50001 or occupational health and safety according to ISO 45001. Our auditors are multi-qualified and can often audit several standards at the same time.
8 steps to IRIS certification with GUTcert
1. Cost calculation: We will provide you with a non-binding quote detailing the necessary audit times.
2. Introduction to the audit team: Personal contact is important to us: Before you start the audit, you will meet your audit team to discuss further planning.
3. Data review: A document review must be carried out at least 60 days before the start of the audit.
4. Readiness review: Every IRIS certification begins with a readiness review. This serves to determine certification readiness and must take place on site no later than 60 days before the start of the IRIS audit.
5. Certification audit: On-site assessment of processes and documentation as well as production facilities by the audit team.
6. Preparation of the audit report: No later than 2 weeks after the on-site appointment, the customer receives a preliminary report with the audit findings.
7. Certification decision: Once all non-conformities have been resolved, the audit documentation is reviewed by the certification body.
8. Certificate: Once a positive certification decision has been made, you will receive your certificate: IRIS certificates are always valid for three years and require annual surveillance audits.
ISO TS 22163 (IRIS) – Global certification
With over 250 active certificates, we and our parent company AFNOR Certification are experienced partners in conducting IRIS certifications worldwide, with a focus on the European and Chinese markets.
This means that certifications for globally positioned companies in the railway industry are no problem.
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