What is ISO 9000?

• ISO 9000 is an international quality standard.
• Helps business (define and document quality procedures for production and/or services).
• Can be used in any type of business.
• Accepted around the world as a proof that a business can provide assured quality products consistently.

Why is ISO 9000 important?

• The desire for quality products and service means business must adhere to strict standards of operation.
• It is a requirement in many international markets.
• Although ISO 9000 is not required for entrance into foreign markets, many corporations around the world see ISO 9000 an essential for conducting business and improving competitiveness.
• You are recognised globally.
• You are revamping the work culture.
• Your employees are motivated.
• Your marketing opportunity expands.
• You are matching with world standards and many more.

Different Quality Systems of ISO 9000

• ISO 9001: Model for Quality assurance in Design, Development, Production, Installation and Servicing.
• ISO 9002: Model for Quality assurance in  Production, Installation and Servicing.
• ISO 9003: Model for Quality assurance in final inspection and test.

What your company has to do?

• To comply, a business must have comprehensive, documented policy and procedures for all operations, work instructions for each job, and quality records that prove that the company is following a well documented quality system.

Route to ISO 9000

The key to obtaining ISO 9000 registration is to complete successfully a third-party audit. (This will require hiring a qualified, outside registrar agency to come in and conduct an on-site audit). The audit will make sure that all operations of a facility are conforming to the standard of ISO 9000. If the audit is convinced on the adequacy of the quality system, ISO 9000 is granted.

Suggestion to form cluster

SSIs having similar nature of work and mutual interest can join together as a cluster and approach SISI for ISO 9000 certification.

Advantages for cluster approach

• Common programmes at a time.
• Assessment time is less.
• Consultancy charges are proportionally reduced.

Consultancy assignment to SISI - What it means

• Very less consultancy charges.
• Abundant trained technical man power for uninterrupted work.
• Well qualified Lead Auditors to help you in ISO 9000 certification.

THE SCHEMES

Financial Incentives & Awards by different Govt./Public Sector Agencies

Small Industries Development Organisation - SIDO

• Reimbursement of charges for acquiring ISO 9000 certification (or its equivalent) to the extent of 75% of the cost subject to a maximum of Rs.75,000/-.

Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI)

Term Loan:

• Promoters' contribution : minimum 15%.
• Upfront fee : Nil.
• Debt equity ratio : 2:1 for the borrowers concerned.
• Repayment period : maximum  5 years.

Eligible borrowers:

Existing Industrial concerns in the SSI sector having a good record of past and sound financial position are eligible for assistance; for this purpose a concern should:

• Be in operation for more than 2 years.
• Have earned profit and or declared dividend.
• Not be in default to institution/banks in payment of their dues.
• Have been exporting their products.

State Bank of India (SBI) Awards:

• On obtaining the ISO certification the unit will be granted an award of Rs.25,000/- or 25% of the total consultancy, whichever is less.
• In the case of exporting units whose exports cover a minimum of 25% of their total turnover, there is a ceiling of Rs.50,000/- on the award amount.
• Unit must be having transaction in the Bank.

Term Loan (SBI)

• There is no restriction on the number of term loans that can be given for consultancy.
• Medium term loan not exceeding 85% of the total cost of consultancy.
• Repayment terms: Three months moratorium.
• Any investment other than consultant's fees for ISO certification process can be met by a separate term loan with 15% margin and carrying normal rate of interest.

Canara Bank Loan:

• 75% of expenses incurred for acquiring testing/calibration equipment.
• 50% of the estimated expenses towards consultancy, documentation, certification fee, etc.
• Maximum loan for both the purposes mentioned above not to exceed Rs.2.50 Lakhs.
• For details on margin money, eligibility criteria, security, repayment terms etc. bank has to be contacted.

Cash Award:

• Fifty SSI entrepreneurs in every calendar year, who acquire ISO 9000 certification will be given a cash award of Rs. 25,000/- each on a 'first come first served basis'.
• Scheme is in operation with effect from 1.1.98
• For further details, bank has to be contacted.