ISO 9001 Clause 8.5.3 - QMS Property Belonging to Customers or External Providers
Clause 8.5.3 of the ISO 9001 standard pertains to the control and management of property that belongs to customers or external providers. This clause outlines the requirements for organizations to establish processes that ensure proper identification, verification, protection, and safeguarding of customer and externally provided property while it is under the organization's control.
1. Identification of Customer and External Provider Property
Step 1: Identification
Ensure that property belonging to customers or external providers is clearly identified as such.
Step 2: Documentation
Maintain records that document the identification, condition, and location of customer and external provider property.
2. Verification and Validation
Step 1: Inspection and Verification
When customer or external provider property is received, conduct inspections and verifications to ensure that it meets the specified requirements.
Step 2: Reporting Nonconformities
If property is found to be nonconforming, report the nonconformity to the customer or external provider, as appropriate.
3. Protection and Safeguarding
Step 1: Protection Measures
Implement measures to protect customer and external provider property from damage, loss, or unauthorized use.
Step 2: Storage and Handling
Store and handle customer and external provider property in accordance with their requirements and conditions.
4. Return and Disposition
Step 1: Return to Customer or External Provider
When customer or external provider property is no longer needed, return it promptly and in the same condition in which it was received.
Step 2: Disposition
Dispose of customer or external provider property in a manner that does not compromise its value or integrity.
5. Benefits of Effective Management of Customer and External Provider Property
- Customer Satisfaction: Properly managing customer property contributes to meeting customer requirements and expectations.
- Risk Mitigation: Effective control and protection of property minimize the risk of damage, loss, or misuse.
- Compliance: Adhering to customer and external provider property requirements demonstrates compliance with contractual agreements.
- Reputation: Demonstrating responsible property management enhances the organization's reputation and relationship with customers and providers.
6. Conclusion
Clause 8.5.3 of ISO 9001 emphasizes the importance of controlling and managing property that belongs to customers or external providers. Establishing clear processes for identification, verification, protection, and return/disposition of such property ensures that it is handled responsibly and in accordance with agreed-upon requirements. By safeguarding customer and external provider property and adhering to contractual obligations, organizations can enhance customer satisfaction, reduce risks, and demonstrate their commitment to quality and compliance. Effective management of customer and external provider property is a key element in building strong relationships and maintaining the reputation of the organization.
