Global Fastener News

September 5, 2000 FIN – The new U.S. Fastener Quality Act provides significant benefits for manufacturers to use a quality assurance system. The drive for continuous improvement is going a lot further. There are quality assurance programs for distributors and for a variety of businesses, such as trade shows.
Many trade associations promote training and programs for their members, and some sponsor certification programs. For example, the Los Angeles Fastener Association developed a Certified Fastener Specialist program.
The Precision Metalforming Association is the first U.S. trade association to receive ISO 9002 certification, and its president declared PMA is “now on the same page” as member companies.
“Many of our member companies have been registered to ISO,” PMA president Jon Jenson noted. “The effects on their quality systems were impressive, and we knew those same standards could strengthen our services. The benefits extend beyond the obvious goal of continuous improvement. We’re now on the same page.”
PMA’s 1,600 member companies in 30 countries and 41 U.S. states include metal stampers, fabricators, spinners, slide formers, roll formers and suppliers.
The PMA staff was divided into teams in early 1999 to review and document work responsibilities and drafted written procedures for each task, focusing on records that would demonstrate adherence.   ©2000/2014 Fastener Industry News.
For information on permission to reuse or reprint this article please e-mail: FIN@GlobalFastenerNews.com