code
Q
Incentive
Product safety within the value added chain of manufacturing food products is gaining more and more importance and is making an essential part of the requirements of customers to the manufacturers of food packaging. By implementation of the standard and with subsequent certification, manufacturers of food packaging are experiencing support by assurance of product safety, quality and legal compliance. The duty of care is fulfilled by an optimized hygiene management and by maintenance of «good manufacturing practice». Risks of contamination are controlled and safe packaging for food products is reliably provided.
Outcome
BRC Global Standard for Packaging Materials requirements are providing manufacturing of safe, high quality level and legally compliant products and are assuring optimization of process control and minimization of risks.
Target groups
Companies and organizations of any size, manufacturing packaging materials.
Validity
1 year - the publisher of the standard is stipulating an annual re-certification.
Recognition
The SQS certificate has international recognition.
Combinations
BRC Global Standard for Packaging Materials is compatible with ISO 9001 (Quality management) and all other management system standards.
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Incentive
The IFS Logistics Standard secures the reliable execution of logistics contracts.
Outcome
By the application of the IFS Logistics Standard the product safety chain will be closed between manufactured and trade. The standard is internationally recognized and in general, a certification is causing a minimization of supplier audits. A company certified according the IFS Logistics Standard has a clear advantage in competition.
Target groups
National and international companies with logistics activities
Validity
1 year
Recognition
The IFS Logistics SQS Certificate is valid internationally and is recognised as the GFSI standard by wholesalers worldwide.
Combinations
The IFS Logistics Standard can be combined with ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), ISO 22000 (food safety management system), IFS Food (Standard for auditing quality and food safety of food products) and IFS Broker.
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Find out more about our accreditations, which make your certifications recognized and trusted worldwide.
Incentive
Product quality and product safety within the value added chain and the trade chain is gaining more and more importance and it is an essential part of the requirements of legislators and customers. By implementation of the standard and subsequent certification, brokers, commercial agencies and importers are contributing to the implementation of the requirements covering the entire value added chain and therefore are raising the own competence in the field of quality and safety. Additionally, by the introduction of the Broker standard, the transparency over the entire chain of delivery will be increased, whereby a basic need of the consumer will be covered.
Outcome
Meeting the requirements of IFS Broker standard one the one hand ensures adequate communication, but also trade with high quality, safe and legally compliant products. The certified company is dealing with the existing risks and is implementing accordant actions in a target oriented manner.
Target groups
SQS is offering the IFS Broker certification in the field of trade with food. Therefore, the target groups are brokers, traders, trade agencies and importers of food.
Validity
One year.
Recognition
As all IFS-products, the IFS Broker standard is an internationally recognized standard.
Combinations
The IFS Broker standard can be combined with the standards ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management) ISO 22000 (Food safety management systems), IFS Food Standard (Food safety standard) and IFS Logistics Standard (standard for service provisions in the field of logistics).
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Find out more about our accreditations, which make your certifications recognized and trusted worldwide.
SODK OST+:2023 – External review of institutions for disabled People
The SODK-OST+ quality guidelines have been used successfully in many institutions for over 10 years. The quality guidelines are the most frequently used instrument for quality assurance in German-speaking Switzerland. The guidelines promote the protection of the personal rights of service users, strengthen their self-determination and autonomy and, when implemented, contribute to social participation.
Leading certification body in Switzerland
Recognised internationally for access to markets worldwide
We have been certifying management systems since 1983
Around 7 000 customers trust our Services
Quality guidelines according to SODK OST+
Certification based on the SODK-OST+ quality guidelines supports the continuous improvement and further development of the service provision. The implementation of the criteria promotes, among other things, the target orientation, self-determination, participation and autonomy of the service users. In some cantons, the SODK OST+:2023 certificate is a prerequisite for performance agreements.
Target groups of SODK OST+
Organisations with outpatient and inpatient services for people with support needs. Such services can be in the areas of housing, work and/or day structure.
Validity period of the certificate
Three years - for the purposes of continual further development, a surveillance audit takes place once a year and after three years a recertification audit.
Recognition of the SQS certificate
The requirements of cantonal supervisory authorities relating to internal and external audits vary. The responsible cantonal local authority is exclusively in a position to specify whether or not an external certification by SQS according to SODK OST+ is recognised.
Responsible for the product and there for you
Dario Schlegel
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
Dario Schlegel
Branch-specific quality requirements
The SODK OST+ quality guidelines are from the sector and for the sector of service providers for people requiring support. The branch specification ensures that the requirements are understandable, comprehensible and established.
Basis for further development
The requirements of SODK OST + offer a good starting point for further development in the area of quality and process management with ISO 9001 certification at a later date.
Clear and optimised processes
SODK OST+ promotes a structured approach across all areas of the company. This minimizes sources of error, makes workflows more efficient and clearly defines processes. This leads to higher quality, improved safety and increased satisfaction for everyone involved.
If you feel fit for the standard, you are welcome to use the form above to register for certification. Otherwise, your path to a SODK OST+ 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 a SODK OST+ certificate?
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The duration depends on various factors such as company size, complexity and degree of preparation. Well-structured documentation and preparation speed up the procedure considerably.
How often does a SODK OST+ certificate need tob e renewed?
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The certificate is valid for three years. Within this period, a surveillance audit is carried out every year, then a recertification takes place.
What are the costs associated with a SODK OST+ certification?
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The costs vary depending on the scope and complexity of the organization. We would be happy to provide you with an individual 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 SQS play as a certification body in SODK OST+ certification?
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The certification body checks neutrally and independently whether your quality management system fulfils the requirements of SODK-OST+ and issues the certificate if the audit report is positive.
How can a company verify the validity of a SODK OST+ certificate?
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Each SQS certificate is given a unique registration number. This number can be used to check the validity via our online directory. To the query.
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 SODK OST+?
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If non-conformities are identified during an audit, the company is given a deadline to initiate corrective measures. Without successful implementation, the certificate cannot be issued or maintained.
How do SODK OST+ and other management systems interact?
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SODK OST+ can be easily combined with other norms and standards. This allows different systems to be managed together and reduces the administrative workload.
What is the difference between SODK OST+ and a general quality management system such as ISO 9001?
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SODK-OST+ includes branch-specific specifications and criteria that go beyond the general framework of ISO 9001. This focus ensures that the specific requirements of the respective branch are considered.
What role do branch-specific requirements play in SODK OST+?
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SODK-OST+ addresses specific requirements for facilities or institutions operating in this environment. These requirements must be integrated into the quality management system in order to meet the branch requirements.
How can a certified quality management system according to SODK OST+ improve the company's image?
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A successful certification shows that a company adheres to high quality standards and continuously develops further. This creates trust among customers, clients, authorities and business partners and can strengthen the market position in the long term.
Can the results of a SODK OST+ certification be used for official recognition procedures?
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In many Cantons, the authorities recognize the quality level of SODK OST+ certification, as it provides proof of professional processes and compliance with branch-specific requirements. Whether and how the certification is recognized in your Canton, however, depends on the respective regulations. Clarify this in advance with the relevant authorities.
Is SODK OST+ also suitable for non-profit organisations?
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Yes. Especially in the non-profit sector, the requirements for a structured way of working and transparent quality standards are often particularly high. SODK OST+ helps to reliably design processes and demonstrably achieve quality objectives - regardless of the organisational form or profit orientation.
IRIS Certification® rev.04 (ISO 22163:2023 and IRIS Certification® Performance Assessment:2023) of the Union of European Railway Industry (UNIFE)
– Rail applications - Railway quality management system - ISO 9001:2015 and specific requirements for application in the rail sector
Proof of compliance with the rules and regulations for rail vehicle manufacturers and rail operators.
Leading certification body in Switzerland
Recognised internationally for access to markets worldwide
We have been certifying management systems since 1983
Around 7 000 customers trust our Services
Railway quality management systems according to IRIS Certification®
The IRIS-certification serves to improve the quality and safety in the entire supply chain of the rail vehicle industry. It is applicable for companies with product development-, manufacturing- and maintenance activities along the entire supply chain. The aim is a continuous improvement with emphasis on error prevention and -reduction in the supply chain as well as the improvement and maintenance of product quality and its safety aspects.
Target groups of IRIS Certification®
Companies and organisations in the rail vehicle industry.
Validity period of the certificate
3 years - there is an annual audit to ensure that standards are being maintained and a recertification audit after 3 years.
Recognition of the SQS certificate
The certificate is published on www.iris-rail.org and is internationally valid.
Responsible for the product and there for you
Fatih Haciismailogullari
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
Fatih Haciismailogullari
Highest quality and process reliability
With an IRIS certification, companies ensure that their products and processes meet the strict requirements of the railway industry. Consistent error prevention and continuous process optimisation increase reliability and help to reduce supply chain failures.
Recognition and market access
IRIS Certification® is a globally recognised system within the rail vehicle industry. A certified quality management system makes it easier for companies to access important markets and strengthens their position in the supply chain of well-known vehicle manufacturers and railway operators.
Clear and optimised processes
IRIS Certification® promotes a structured approach in all areas of the company. Thus, sources of error are minimised, workflows are made more efficient and processes are clearly defined. This leads to higher quality, improved safety and increased customer satisfaction.
If you feel fit for the standard, you are welcome to use the form above to register for certification. Otherwise, your path to an IRIS 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 IRIS certificate?
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The duration depends on the size of the company, the complexity of the processes and the degree of preparation. Both well-organised documentation and preparation speed up the procedure.
How often does an IRIS certificate need to be renewed?
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The certificate is valid for three years. During this time, a surveillance audit is carried out every year and recertification audit takes place after three years.
What are the costs associated with an IRIS 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 IRIS certification?
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The certification body checks neutrally and independently whether your quality management system fulfils the requirements of IRIS Certification® and issues the certificate if the audit report is positive.
How can a company verify the validity of an IRIS certificate?
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There is a central online database for IRIS certificates at www.iris-rail.org. To check the validity of a certificate, you can search there either by the name of the company, the registration number or other search criteria (such as location or scope).
Can a company have several certifications at the same time?
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What happens if a company does not fulfil the IRIS Certification® requirements?
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If non-conformities are identified during an audit, the company is given a deadline to implement corrective measures. The certification cannot be issued or maintained without successful implementation.
How do IRIS and other management systems interact?
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What is the difference between IRIS and ISO 9001?
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IRIS is based on the principles of a quality management system (ISO 9001), but includes additional requirements that are specifically tailored to the railway industry, particularly with regard to safety, risk management and supplier control.
What role do branch-specific requirements play in IRIS?
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IRIS Certification® considers customer-specific and railway-specific requirements. Therefore, these must be integrated into the management system to fully meet the requirements of the railway industry.
How can a certified railway QMS improve the corporate image?
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A successful IRIS certification shows that a company fulfils the highest quality and safety standards and is continuously developing. This strengthens the trust of customers, investors and business partners and can secure the company's competitive position in the long term.
Incentive
According to ISO 9000, welding is a so-called «special process» which «cannot be validated easily or economically». Therefore, the specific requirements are defined in the ISO 3834-2 standard. It helps your welding company to meet quality requirements of customers and to produce high-quality and reliable products for the regulated and non-regulated field. Certification according to ISO 3834-2 creates confidence among your customers and reduces your liability risk.
Outcome
ISO 3834-4 supports customer-oriented solutions and optimises process control. It reduces risks and costs.
Target groups
Manufacturers of welded components in regulated and unregulated fields.
Validity
3 years - there is an annual audit to ensure that standards are being maintained and a recertification audit after 3 years.
Recognition
The SQS certificate of conformity with ISO 3834-4 has international validity and is recognised worldwide through the IQNET membership.
Combinations
Stand-alone certification without combination with ISO 9001 (quality management); other standards on request.
Trust in proven quality
Find out more about our accreditations, which make your certifications recognized and trusted worldwide.
Incentive
According to ISO 9000, welding is a so-called «special process» which «cannot be validated easily or economically». Therefore, the specific requirements are defined in the ISO 3834-2 standard. It helps your welding company to meet quality requirements of customers and to produce high-quality and reliable products for the regulated and non-regulated field. Certification according to ISO 3834-2 creates confidence among your customers and reduces your liability risk.
Outcome
ISO 3834-2 supports customer-oriented solutions and optimises process control. It reduces risks and costs.
Target groups
Manufacturers of welded components in regulated and unregulated fields.
Validity
3 years - there is an annual audit to ensure that standards are being maintained and a recertification audit after 3 years.
Recognition
The SQS certificate of conformity with ISO 3834-2 has international validity and is recognised worldwide through the IQNET membership.
Combinations
Stand-alone certification without combination with ISO 9001 (quality management); other standards on request.
Trust in proven quality
Find out more about our accreditations, which make your certifications recognized and trusted worldwide.
Incentive
According to ISO 9000, welding is a so-called «special process» which «cannot be validated easily or economically». Therefore, the specific requirements are defined in the ISO 3834-2 standard. It helps your welding company to meet quality requirements of customers and to produce high-quality and reliable products for the regulated and non-regulated field. Certification according to ISO 3834-2 creates confidence among your customers and reduces your liability risk.
Outcome
ISO 3834-3 supports customer-oriented solutions and optimises process control. It reduces risks and costs.
Target groups
Manufacturers of welded components in regulated and unregulated fields.
Validity
3 years - there is an annual audit to ensure that standards are being maintained and a recertification audit after 3 years.
Recognition
The SQS certificate of conformity with ISO 3834-3 has international validity and is recognised worldwide through the IQNET membership.
Combinations
Stand-alone certification without combination with ISO 9001 (quality management); other standards on request.
Trust in proven quality
Find out more about our accreditations, which make your certifications recognized and trusted worldwide.
Incentive
In order to meet international specifications for food retailers, the IFS (GFSI recognised process) is suitable for the implementation of and compliance with food safety.
Outcome
IFS Food Standard certification is world wide accepted by retailers and brand owners. The companies address the product- and process-specific hazards and risks in a well-founded manner, thereby increasing product safety. Companies are required by the standard to live and promote a food safety culture. The audits are carried out by qualified auditors approved by the IFS. Through the audits, some of which are unannounced, the certified company is obliged to maintain the level at a constantly high level and to fulfil the requirements at all times.
Target groups
Food- and food ingredient manufacturers who require a worldwide- and GFSI-recognised certificate.
Validity
1 year
Recognition
The IFS Food SQS Certificate is valid internationally and is recognised as the GFSI standard by wholesalers worldwide.
Combinations
IFS Food can be combined with all norms and standards.
Trust in proven quality
Find out more about our accreditations, which make your certifications recognized and trusted worldwide.
Incentive
FSSC 22000 (GFSI approved procedure) is suitable for the implementation of and compliance with food safety in order to meet international food specifications
Outcome
The implementation of the specifications of standards (PRP, HACCP, traceability, recall/return, verification/validation, etc.) guarantee food safety requirements.
Target groups
Food and food ingredient manufacturers, packaging material manufacturers, feed and pet food manufacturers, catering companies as well as logistics service providers.
Validity
3 years - there is an annual audit to ensure that standards are being maintained and a recertification audit after three years.
Recognition
The SQS certificate of conformity with FSSC 22000 Issue V6 (Food) has international recognition.
Combinations
FSSC 22000 can be combined with all norms and standards.
Trust in proven quality
Find out more about our accreditations, which make your certifications recognized and trusted worldwide.