with more than 1400 automotive (QS and TS) certificates worldwide, is a recognized leader in the registration of automotive quality management systems. In this position and as a global registrar, as new specifications are released and existing specifications and requirements are revised, we are able to work with our client base to keep everyone aware of the latest changes.
The past 10 years have seen some exciting developments in the standardization and harmonization of fundamental quality management system requirements and certification infrastructure. In line with our commitment to provide our clients cutting edge information and services, UL has been an active participant in the development of some of these Standards and an early adopter in developing a cadre of staff who are experts in the industry in order to meet our client's needs. Our global certification program includes QS 9000, the TE Supplement to QS 9000 and ISO/TS 16949:2002 certification services.

What is ISO/TS16949:2002?
ISO/TS 16949:2002 is an ISO Technical Specification, which aligns existing American (QS-9000), German (VDA6.1), French (EAQF) and Italian (AVSQ) automotive quality systems standards within the global automotive industry, with the aim of eliminating the need for multiple certifications to satisfy multiple customer requirements.
Together with ISO 9001:2000, ISO/TS 16949:2002 specifies the quality system requirements for the design/development, production, installation and servicing of automotive related products. In addition, there are customer specific requirements that are required by individual subscribing vehicle manufacturers.

Who are the authors of ISO/TS16949:2002?
ISO/TS 16949:2002 was developed by The International Automotive Task Force (IATF), in conjunction with the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO).
The IATF consists of an international group of vehicle manufacturers - BMW Group, DaimlerChrysler, Fiat, Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation, PSA Peugeot-Citroen, Renault and Volkswagen - plus national trade associations - AIAG (America), VDA (Germany), SMMT (UK), ANFIA (Italy) and FIEV (France). Japanese vehicle manufacturers association, JAMA, were also involved in the development of ISO/TS 16949:2002, opening the way for Japanese vehicle manufacturers to join IATF in future.

What is the format of ISO/TS16949:2002?
Sector requirements, defining international automotive quality system requirements are contained in the main body of ISO/TS16949:2002, which is written around the format of ISO9001:2000.
These requirements also refer to Automotive Core Tools in relation to Advanced Quality Planning (eg. APQP), Part Approval Process (eg. PPAP), Measurement Systems Analysis (MSA), FMEA and SPC.
Customer specific requirements are required by individual subscribing customers and are provided separately.

What are the Eligibility requirements for ISO/TS16949:2002?
Read the latest rules on eligibility for ISO/TS 16949 certification, as determined by IATF

What are the Vehicle Manufacturers stances in relation to ISO/TS16949:2002?
See the latest stances of the Vehicle Manufacturers in relation to ISO/TS 16949:2002 certification for their own supplier base.

What is the future for QS-9000?
Review the latest position on the validity of QS-9000.

Can BSI perform assessments to ISO/TS16949?
Yes. BSI has been appointed as a Recognised Certification Body by IATF. Only recognised certification bodies can issue certificates, which satisfies the supporting vehicle manufacturers. Recent figures indicate there are 52 recognised certification bodies worldwide.
To support their global BSI certification services, BSI has over 100 trained ISO/TS16949 assessors located worldwide.

Will BSI be accredited by UKAS or RAB for ISO/TS16949?
ISO/TS16949 will not be accredited by UKAS or RAB. Witness Audits of office activities and field assessments will be performed by IATF, to verify a certification body's competence and compliance with requirements. The UKAS symbol will not be displayed on ISO/TS16949 certificates; instead the IATF logo will be displayed.

What are the benefits of Certification to ISO/TS 16949 with BSI?
Organisations can be certified against one international automotive management system standard instead of having to meet requirements from multiple standards such as QS-9000, VDA-6 etc. This may mean:
- Reduction in multiple 3rd party registrations freeing up time and supplier resources for other quality activities and improvement opportunities that can enhance business.
- A reduction in 2nd party audits, again freeing up time
- Common quality system approach in the supply chain for development and consistency, allowing organisations within the supply chain to work more effectively together.
- Common language, which will improve understanding of quality requirements, making implementation and maintenance of the system easier.
ISO/TS16949 certification with BSI is accepted and recognised globally. BSI is one of the leading Certification bodies in the world for automotive management system certification. Recognition of the international standard and the integrity of the BSI Certification can provide additional confidence in global sourcing, enabling greater business opportunities.
ISO 9001:2000, upon which ISO/TS 16949:2002 is based encourages the use of a process approach. Understanding the interrelationship of processes within the organisation through the use and application of the standard could enable improved product and process quality.

Who can I contact for further information?
BSI client services, tel: +44 (0)20 8996 7720, are able to answer general enquiries and provide quotation information.