EN 9120:2018 equivalent to AS 9120 B and JISQ 9120:2016 – Certification of Quality Management Systems for Distributors and Stockist in Aviation, Space, and Defence organizations
The rapid change in technology in all sectors, the development of trends in society as well as the continuously increased globalization of the markets is still on going. In order to foster customer satisfaction and customer loyalty, a systematic and continuous knowledge management is assumed regarding the development of the business environment and its related needs as well as the expectations of the relevant stakeholders. Thus, an early detection of short and long term challenges will be supported in such a way that an enterprise could align its organization and processes and would be able to improve them in a performance oriented way. Risk oriented management helps to prioritize according actions in order to prevent hazards and to successfully make use of chances and opportunities in a timely manner. In this context, ensuring the availability and maintenance of skills and knowledge is an even more complex task, with which companies must deal in an increasing manner.
In the Aviation, Space and Defence industry applies specific core issues and associated requirements such as configuration management, operational risk management, project management, first article (EN 9102), key characteristics management (EN 9103), foreign object detection (FOD), counterfeits parts, safety management, Human Factors, external supplier management, On-Time Delivery (OTD), etc..
The standards EN 9120:2018 equivalent to AS 9120 B and JISQ 9120:2016 provide these and other topics with the requirements to be met by suppliers of Aviation, Space and Defence industries.
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Quality management according to EN 9120
Outcome
By establishing effective risk and prevention-focused practices and processes, by standardizing requirements, providing process requirements and by the dissemination of best practices significant performance improvements in terms of quality, On Time Delivery (OTD) and cost can be achieved for products and services throughout the value chain. Maintaining a quality culture in all value-added processes affects positively quality costs.
By building and maintaining a dynamic cooperation between organisations of international aviation, aerospace and defence benefits and trust are created.
The certification according to EN 9120 is the prerequisite for registration as a supplier and is listed in the OASIS database. Through EN 9120 the prescribed use of validated process assurance measures, process control at its highest level, i.e. zero-error principle as well as cost reduction, is achieved.
Target groups of EN 9120
Organisations from the aviation, aerospace and defence industries.
Validity period of the certificate
3 years - for the purpose of continuous development a yearly upholding audit and after 3 years a recertification audit is conducted.
Recognition of the SQS certificate
The SQS certificate EN 9120 is internationally recognized.
The standards EN 9120 (Europe), AS 9120 (North and South America) and JISQ 9120 (Asia) are equivalent. Except for few details, the contents are identical. The regional division is determined by the three major regulated world sectors, which, however, are now largely harmonized.
Responsible for the product and there for you
Pascal Arnaudo
Do you have any questions about the standard or our service? Would you like to know more about the certification process and the costs? Or may we provide you with a concrete offer for the certification?
We are happy to help you. Our account management team and I, as the product manager, will be happy to forward your questions to our experienced auditors. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to access certified management systems.
Please let us know how we can support you. We look forward to hearing from you!
Kind regards
Pascal Arnaudo
Highest quality and process reliability
EN 9120 sets strict requirements for product identification, traceability and documentation. The «Zero-Defect Principle» in conjunction with continuous improvement processes minimises risks during storage, transport and resale of components. This leads to greater safety, satisfied customers and efficient logistics.
Recognition and market access
A certification according to EN 9120 is often the prerequisite for being listed in the branch as a reliable dealer or warehouse keeper. Inclusion in the OASIS database improves visibility and opens up new business opportunities on international markets.
Clear and optimised processes
Through the consistent standardisation and documentation of processes, sources of error can be reduced in a targeted manner and workflows can be designed efficiently. This reduces quality costs, increases profitability and raises confidence among suppliers and customers alike.
If you feel fit for the standard, you are welcome to use the form above to register for certification. Otherwise, your path to EN 9120 certification could look like this:
#1 – Building up the system
Implement your management system in accordance with the requirements of the standard so that you are ready for your first external certification audit by SQS.
#2 – Registration for the certification
After registering for certification, you can benefit from a preliminary talk or pre-audit. The pre-audit identifies system-relevant gaps and enables efficient certification.
#3 – Auditing
We first review your system documentation, assess your readiness for certification and draw up a detailed audit plan together with you. Our auditors then visit your company to assess the relevant test objects and the maturity degree of the management system and compile a report.
#4 – Certificate with a three-year validity
If the report is positive, you receive the certificate in digital and printed form. You can communicate it internally and externally for three years. Annual audits ensure compliance with the standard and enable continuous improvements. A comprehensive recertification takes place after three years.
How long does it take to obtain an EN 9120 certificate?
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The duration depends on factors such as the size of the company, the complexity of the processes and the degree of preparation. Well-organised documentation and clear responsibilities speed up the procedure.
How often does an EN 9120 certificate need to be renewed?
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The certificate is valid for three years. A surveillance audit is carried out every year during this period. At the end of the three years period, a recertification audit is carried out to extend the certificate.
What are the costs associated with an EN 9120 certification?
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The costs vary depending on the size and complexity of the organisation. We would be happy to provide you with a customised offer.
Does SQS also offer consultancy services?
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No, our core competence is certification. However, if required, we will be happy to connect you with external experts or organise training courses so that you can optimally prepare for certification.
What role does the certification body play in EN 9120 certification?
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The certification body checks neutrally and independently whether your quality management system meets the requirements of EN 9120, issues the certificate if the assessment is positive and conducts the annual surveillance audits.
How can a company verify the validity of an EN 9120 certificate?
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Each certificate is given a unique registration number. In addition, EN 9120 certifications are listed in the OASIS database. Interested customers or partners can easily verify the validity there.
Can a company have several certifications at the same time?
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What happens if a company does not fulfil the requirements of EN 9120?
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If non-conformities are identified during the audit, the company is given a deadline to implement corrective measures. The certificate cannot be issued or extended if the non-conformities are not fully resolved.
How do EN 9120 and other management systems interact?
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Many norms and standards are based on the harmonised structure of ISO management systems, which enables seamless integration. This allows different systems to be managed together and reduces the administrative workload.
What significance has the OASIS database for EN 9120-certified companies?
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OASIS (Online Aerospace Supplier Information System) is a global platform where all companies certified to aerospace- and defence-specific standards are listed. Dealers and warehouse keepers with EN 9120 can be found there, which increases their international visibility and provides access to new markets.
How does EN 9120-certified quality management improve the company image?
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A certification according to EN 9120 proves that a company complies with high quality and safety standards and proactively manages risks. This creates trust at customers, suppliers and authorities and enables a strong market position in the aviation, aerospace and defence industries.
Why are topics such as traceability and configuration management so important?
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The proof of origin and status of a component or product is particularly crucial for dealers and warehouse keepers. EN 9120 therefore places great importance on comprehensive documentation and configuration control to minimise risks in a safety-critical environment and ensure the integrity of the supply chain.
What additional branch-specific topics does EN 9120 cover in comparison to ISO 9001?
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In addition to the general requirements for quality management (ISO 9001), EN 9120 integrates specific aspects of the aerospace and defence industry. These include, for example, configuration management, First Article Inspection (FAI), operational risk management in the project environment and special processes to prevent counterfeit parts. These branch-specific requirements are essential to guarantee the high safety and reliability standards in this sector.
Why do issues such as Foreign Object Debris (FOD) and Counterfeit Parts Management play such an important role?
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In the aerospace industry, even the smallest foreign objects (FOD) or counterfeit or untested components can cause significant safety risks. EN 9120 therefore requires specific guidelines and processes to control and minimise such risks. Structured FOD and Counterfeit Parts Management not only improves product safety but also protects the image and liability of the companies involved.