Definition: International standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS). Provides a framework for consistent quality, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement across all business processes.
Why It Matters: ISO 9001 certification demonstrates systematic quality management. Many large retailers, pharmaceutical companies, and export markets require ISO 9001 certification from cold chain service providers.
Core Principles:
– Customer focus
– Leadership commitment
– Process approach
– Evidence-based decision making
– Continuous improvement
Cold Chain Relevance:
– Standardized operating procedures for temperature control
– Document control for compliance records
– Corrective action processes for temperature excursions
– Supplier and subcontractor management
Certification Bodies in SA: SABS, SGS, Bureau Veritas, TÜV, BSI
Related Terms: Quality Management System, Continuous Improvement, ISO 22000, HACCP