AS9100 Clause 6 Explained

What is AS9100 Clause 6 About?

AS9100 is a quality management system standard specifically designed for the aerospace industry. Clause 6 of AS9100 typically deals with the planning aspects of the quality management system.

Here’s a breakdown of what you might find in Clause 6:

Planning for Quality Objectives:

This involves establishing measurable objectives at relevant functions, levels, and processes within the organization. These objectives should be consistent with the quality policy and aligned with the organization’s strategic goals.

Quality Management System Planning:

This includes determining what processes are needed for the quality management system and how they will be implemented, maintained, and improved. It involves identifying risks and opportunities that could affect the organization’s ability to achieve its intended outcomes.

Risk-based Thinking:

AS9100 emphasizes the importance of considering risk throughout the quality management system. Clause 6 may include requirements related to identifying and addressing risks and opportunities to enhance the effectiveness of the quality management system and achieve desired results.

Resource Management:

This involves determining and providing the necessary resources for the quality management system, including human resources, infrastructure, and the work environment. It also involves ensuring that personnel are competent to carry out their assigned tasks.

Responsibility, Authority, and Communication:

This aspect focuses on defining roles, responsibilities, and authorities within the organization related to the quality management system. It also involves establishing effective communication processes to ensure that relevant information is communicated throughout the organization.

Clause 6 of AS9100 sets the foundation for effective planning and implementation of the quality management system within an aerospace organization, with a focus on achieving quality objectives, managing risks, allocating resources, and ensuring clear communication and responsibilities.

The AS9100 Clauses:

What is the Difference Between AS9100 Clause 6 and ISO 9001 Clause 6?

The key difference between AS9100 Clause 6 and ISO 9001 Clause 6 lies in their focus and specificity, given their different contexts and target industries.

Focus Industry:

AS9100 is specifically tailored for the aerospace industry, while ISO 9001 is a generic quality management system standard applicable to various industries.

Additional Requirements in AS9100:

AS9100 includes additional requirements and specific considerations relevant to the aerospace sector, such as product safety, counterfeit parts prevention, configuration management, and regulatory compliance specific to aerospace products and services. These aspects are not explicitly addressed in ISO 9001.

Risk Management:

Both AS9100 and ISO 9001 emphasize risk-based thinking, but AS9100 typically places greater emphasis on risk management due to the critical nature of aerospace products and services. AS9100 may require more rigorous risk assessment and mitigation strategies compared to ISO 9001.

Regulatory Compliance:

AS9100 incorporates specific regulatory requirements and industry standards applicable to the aerospace sector, such as FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) regulations in the United States or EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) regulations in Europe. ISO 9001 does not include such industry-specific regulatory requirements.

Depth of Requirements:

AS9100 may have more detailed and stringent requirements in certain areas compared to ISO 9001, reflecting the higher safety and quality standards demanded by the aerospace industry.
In summary, while both AS9100 Clause 6 and ISO 9001 Clause 6 address planning aspects of quality management systems, AS9100 includes additional industry-specific requirements and considerations relevant to the aerospace sector, such as product safety, regulatory compliance, and risk management.

How Do Companies Comply with AS9100 Clause 6?

Companies comply with AS9100 Clause 6 by implementing a structured approach to planning and executing their quality management system (QMS).

Here’s how companies typically achieve compliance with AS9100 Clause 6:

Understanding Requirements:

Companies start by thoroughly understanding the requirements outlined in Clause 6 of AS9100. This involves studying the standard and its interpretations, as well as any supplementary guidance provided by industry organizations or certification bodies.

Establishing Quality Objectives:

Companies set measurable quality objectives that are aligned with their overall business goals and the requirements of AS9100. These objectives should be specific, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

Risk Management:

Companies conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to identify potential risks and opportunities that could affect the quality management system and the organization’s ability to meet its objectives. They develop risk mitigation plans and incorporate risk-based thinking into their processes.

Resource Allocation:

Companies ensure that they have the necessary resources (e.g., personnel, infrastructure, technology) to support the implementation and maintenance of their QMS. This includes providing appropriate training and support to personnel involved in quality-related activities.

Defining Responsibilities and Authorities:

Companies define clear roles, responsibilities, and authorities for personnel involved in the QMS. This ensures that everyone understands their roles in maintaining and improving quality within the organization.

Communication:

Companies establish effective communication channels to ensure that relevant information regarding the QMS, quality objectives, and performance is communicated to all relevant stakeholders. This includes internal communication among employees as well as communication with external parties such as suppliers and customers.

Documentation and Record-keeping:

Companies maintain accurate documentation of their quality management system, including policies, procedures, work instructions, and records of quality-related activities. This documentation provides evidence of compliance with AS9100 requirements and facilitates audits by certification bodies.

Continuous Improvement:

Companies continually monitor and measure their QMS performance against established quality objectives and key performance indicators. They use this data to identify areas for improvement and take corrective and preventive actions as necessary to enhance the effectiveness of their QMS.

By following these steps and implementing robust processes and procedures, companies can effectively comply with the requirements of AS9100 Clause 6 and demonstrate their commitment to quality management in the aerospace industry.