ISO 9001 to AS9100 Gap Analysis Guide
Download our AS9100:2016 Gap Analysis Guide to discover the major additional requirements found in AS9100 as compared to ISO 9001.
AS9100 vs AS9120: What's the Difference?
In the complex world of aerospace quality management, consistency and reliability are crucial. Two quality management standards that often come up are AS9100 and AS9120. Both are part of the AS91XX series, which are designed to meet the stringent requirements of the aerospace industry. But what's the difference between AS9100 vs AS9120? This article will clarify the differences and help quality management professionals understand which standard aligns best with their operational needs.
Understanding AS9100
AS9100 is the standardized quality management system (QMS) for organizations in the aerospace sector. It is an extension of ISO 9001, including additional requirements specific to aerospace. AS9100 applies to organizations that design, develop, or produce aerospace products; it also covers post-delivery support and maintenance.
Key Components of AS9100:
- Product Safety: AS9100 emphasizes product safety throughout the lifecycle, ensuring that every stage from design to delivery maintains the highest safety standards.
- Risk Management: This standard incorporates robust risk management practices, identifying potential risks early in the project lifecycle to mitigate them effectively.
- Configuration Management: Detailed procedures ensure that product designs and specifications are maintained accurately across all stages.
- Quality Assurance: AS9100 includes comprehensive quality assurance measures to ensure consistent quality in aerospace products and services.
Understanding AS9120
AS9120, on the other hand, is aimed specifically at distributors in the aerospace industry. It builds upon ISO 9001 but focuses on requirements pertinent to stock and distributors—businesses that procure parts and other products for resale. AS9120 doesn't apply to companies involved in production or service activities.
Key Components of AS9120:
- Traceability: AS9120 places a heavy emphasis on traceability, ensuring that distributors can track each part back to its original manufacturer.
- Inventory Management: This standard requires meticulous inventory management practices, ensuring that stored products maintain their integrity and usability.
- Product Documentation: Ensuring that all necessary documentation accompanies each part is crucial under AS9120 to maintain compliance and quality standards.
- Supplier Management: Stringent supplier evaluation processes are critical to ensure that distributors only work with reliable and compliant manufacturers.
Comparison: AS9100 vs AS9120
Understanding the distinction between AS9100 vs AS9120 boils down to their scope and application within the aerospace industry:
- Scope: AS9100 is broad, covering design, production, and servicing, whereas AS9120 is targeted towards distribution activities.
- Application: AS9100 applies to manufacturers; AS9120 applies to distributors, focusing on different aspects of the supply chain.
- Requirements: While both standards build on ISO 9001 principles, AS9100 includes additional requirements for safety and risk management specific to production, whereas AS9120 focuses on traceability and inventory management for distributors.
Choosing the Right Standard
For aerospace enterprises, selecting the right standard depends on the nature of their operations. Manufacturers who design and produce aerospace components should consider implementing AS9100 to ensure comprehensive quality management. Conversely, distributors who focus on the procurement and resale of parts might find AS9120 more aligned with their operational needs.
AS9100 vs AS9120 Conclusion
Both AS9100 and AS9120 play crucial roles in maintaining high standards in the aerospace industry, each catering to different segments of the supply chain. Understanding their differences helps quality management professionals ensure compliance and excellence in their operations. If you're still uncertain which standard best suits your organization, consulting with a qualified quality management expert can provide tailored guidance.
For more insight into AS9100 vs AS9120, or for those looking to enhance their expertise in aerospace quality management, engaging with industry leaders and professionals can provide invaluable insights and assistance. Consider attending workshops or conferences to keep abreast of the latest developments in aerospace quality standards.
To learn more about AS9100 or AS9120, contact us to speak with our experts. Or if your ready to get started with AS9100 or AS9120 certification - request a quote, today.
