Polar Achieves ISO 9001
As part of its quest for continuous improvement Polar has just achieved ISO 9001.
ISO 9001 is the world’s most established quality framework, recognised in 61 countries, and setting the standard for quality management systems in general. Managing director John Wilson was delighted that Polar was now accredited: “This will reassure our customers, many of whom are public service organisations, architects and major contractors, that Polar conforms to the best recognised management systems in the fabrication and installation of products.”
Production manager John Middleton has been responsible for much of the instigation of the ISO systems, since Polar first started working towards accreditation just under a year ago. The assessors were impressed that Polar already had many of the requisite systems in place, as John had previously been overseeing the closer integration of aluminium and PVC-U manufacturing processes, as well as encouraging multi-skilling for specific projects among the company’s 63-strong employees. John confirmed: “Whilst this standard provides reassurance for the customer, it also gives us a level of confidence in our systems and processes being properly carried out and documented. It is something that Polar customers working on major contracts in the region now expect as a matter of course.”
Polar’s long-term aim has always been to work towards achieving ISO 9001, and this accreditation provides official recognition of the work the whole team has put in. Reflecting the company’s efforts in this area is the fact that Polar had a record year in 2006, completing projects on 195 schools in the North and North East of England, along with other successful projects in the leisure and health sectors.
Polar Features
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Working successfully in schools represents a very special challenge for installation companies such as Polar with the safety and security of pupils and staff of paramount importance at all times.
Disabled Access
In October 2004 Part III of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) came into effect. Polar have provided some useful tips to help you comply.