A Hybrid Quality System Approach Leads to ISO Certification


NEW BRITAIN, CT - Peter Paul Electronics Co. Inc. (PPE) is proud to announce ISO 9001 certification. Peter Paul started formally implementing ISO 9000 in Y2005. Over a 5-1/2 year span, the companies operating processes were documented, and modified where necessary, to not only comply with ISO 9000 requirements, but to establish a robust Quality Management System (QMS). Importance was placed on efficiency and effective quality management systems rather than have a certificate on the wall, so seeking certification was secondary.

The Peter Paul senior management team and the Mangiafico family supported the effort over the five and a half years. The "system" was implemented essentially in the background, invisible to the plant personnel. Internal audits were performed, and improvements made. One key element in the implementation, was to marry the QMS to the Lean Transformation and 5s methodology Peter Paul was also implementing during the same period of time. The QMS documents the standard work developed using 5s methodology. The QMS is an integral part of the transformation instead of a standalone system and some companies choose. A very tangible benefit of documenting the processes is that 1) processes are standardized, and 2) new personnel can be trained to the same standard process instead of relying on people's memory and "tribal knowledge." Review of the QMS was also integrated into company strategic planning and the progress reviewed.

The training and education piece is important to achieve buy-in of all team members. A training presentation will now become part of the new employee orientation process. Training and training effectiveness are two key components that will be audited on each year. Peter Paul is in the process of developing an annual training plan plant-wide. Approximately 25% of the employee population has been at the company in access of 10 years. To learn new tools and make significant changes to how tenured employees approach their work is commendable. And happily employees are actually more satisfied since this effort.

Peter Paul not only monitors internal metrics, but maintains a very comprehensive data driven process for analyzing customer returns to provide further process and product improvements. Suppliers are also monitored for performance in Quality, On-time Delivery and Responsiveness to Peter Paul needs.

The ISO-9000 standard requires 6 processes that must be documented and controlled:

1. Document Control

2. Control of Quality Records

3. Competence, Training and Awareness

4. Control of Nonconforming Product

5. Corrective Action

6. Preventive Action

Peter Paul Electronics, founded in 1947, is a premier manufacturer of solenoid valves including general purpose use, high flow, explosion proof, high pressure, cryogenic, diverter, manifold, plastic, safety, stainless steel and mini valves. Peter Paul (PPE) offers many of thousands of possibilities from solenoid valves that operate with power as low as 1/2 watt to pressure as high as 3000 psi. PPE has two facilities, one in New Britain, CT consisting of a 77,000 square foot plant in New Britain, Connecticut, and a 23,500 square foot facility in Fajardo, Puerto Rico. High quality design, innovative research and development set Peter Paul apart from other manufactures. Continuous improvement is in the fabric of the company on all levels with people having years of experience, dedication and pride.

Contact Information:

Peter Paul Electronics, PPE

480 John Downey Drive, PO Box 1180

New Britain, CT 06050-1180

850-512-4124

info@peterpaul.com

www.peterpaul.com

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