Nuclear power: TÜV NORD receives DAkkS accreditation for ISO 19443

TÜV NORD has received accreditation from the German Accreditation Body (DAkkS) for the international quality management standard ISO 19443. ISO 19443 contains specific requirements for the nuclear industry and helps it to fulfil the high safety and quality standards.

The international increase in the construction of nuclear facilities has made it necessary to establish a reliable supply chain for products and services (ITNS) that are relevant to nuclear safety. ISO 19443 ensures that the highest safety standards are met and risks are minimised. This increases transparency in the supply chain and client confidence. This is particularly relevant with regard to the construction of new nuclear facilities worldwide. "The constructors of nuclear facilities, but also their suppliers, are increasingly required to have ISO 19443 certification from an accredited certification body in order to meet the high requirements. Implementing this in companies creates a culture of nuclear safety," says Silvia Hensel from TÜV NORD.

ISO 19443 is based on the principles of ISO 9001. It is supplemented by special requirements that are relevant along the supply chain in the nuclear energy sector. Silvia Hensel: "Many companies have already been certified to ISO 9001 for many years and have a mature quality management system. Some are also certified to KTA 1401. Both of these experiences are a good prerequisite for implementing ISO 19443." The certification process is no different to ISO 9001 and consists of a quotation and contract phase, audit planning, audit implementation in two stages and annual monitoring of the certified management system," says Silvia Hensel.

Companies that are certified to ISO 19443 can position themselves as leading suppliers in the nuclear industry and gain a stronger market presence. The step-by-step approach for safety-relevant products and services means that the quality requirements are adapted according to importance and risk. The standard therefore also supports risk management and process optimisation.