IATF 16949:2016 is a quality management system specifically designed for the automotive industry. The International Automotive Task Force (IATF) is an “ad hoc” group of automotive manufacturers and their respective National Automotive Industry Associations, formed to provide improved quality requirements for automotive products worldwide. This IATF standard is based on the ISO 9001 standard but includes additional requirements specific to the automotive industry. The regulation applies to organizations that produce parts, assemblies, and components for the automotive sector.

The Purpose of IATF 16949:2016

IATF 16949 replaced the technical standard (TS) 16949 in 2016. The previous TS 16949 was based on ISO-9001-2008. IATF 16949 is based upon the updated requirements of ISO-9001-2015. In addition to making it clear that the issuing body is the IATF, the key differences include the addition of accountability clauses for top management, expanded monitoring and measuring features, and new corrective action requirements. IATF 16949:2016 provides a framework for automotive organizations to follow to improve their quality management systems. It’s intended to help automotive manufacturers:

• Continuously improve their products, processes, and systems
• Reduce defects and errors in their products and processes
• Enhance customer satisfaction and safety
• Comply with applicable legal and regulatory requirements

IATF 16949 requirements benefit customers by ensuring automotive products and services meet all safety and reliability needs. It also reduces variability and waste in the supply chain, improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

IATF 16949 Certification Benefits

Here are some of the benefits of IATF 16949 certification:

• Streamlined processes
• Less waste
• Fewer mistakes that could result in recalls
• Cost savings
• Better consistency and communication
• Greater employee engagement

Difference Between IATF 16949 & ISO 9001

IATF 16949 shares many similarities with ISO 9001, a general quality management system applied across multiple industries. Both standards have the same structure and goal of ensuring organizations adhere to established quality guidelines.

However, they have some key differences. IATF 16949 is specifically designed for the automotive industry and must meet the requirements of ISO 9001 as well as additional industry-specific requirements, which include:

• Requirements related to the QMS of automotive manufacturers
• Applicability to sites that produce parts for car assembly or service parts, not aftermarket parts
• Calibration and records for all measurement systems
• Accreditation bodies that include IATF, auditors, IAOB, and more
• Handling customer-specific requirements

IATF 16949:2016 requires organizations to have a documented quality management system and to follow a process-based approach to quality management. This means that organizations must define and document their processes, ensuring they are consistently followed to meet this automotive quality standard.

Triad Magnetics’ IATF 16949 Certification

As a company that manufactures commercial, industrial, and consumer electronics, Triad Magnetics’ Philippine factory has been IATF 16949:2016 certified since 2018.

As part of our compliance with the standard, we provide Production Part Approval Processes (PPAPs) for all new product submissions. In accordance with the Customer Specified and Control Plan parameters, we also disclose our statistical process controls on critical steps in the manufacturing process.

Going above and beyond our IATF 16949:2016 certification, we have implemented several additional quality control measures to ensure that our products meet the highest automotive standards. These measures include:

• Robust design and development processes, including thorough testing and validation of all new products
• Stringent inspection processes to ensure that all products meet the required specifications
• A state-of-the-art quality management system, which is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that it meets the changing needs of our customers and the industry

Triad Magnetics’ Commitment to Quality

Triad Magnetics is dedicated to providing high-quality electronic coils, chokes, and transformers to our customers. Our IATF 16949:2016 certification is a testament to our commitment to quality and continuous improvement.

To learn more about our Transportation Industry capabilities, take a look at Triad’s website or browse our catalog to find a solution for your application. Request a quote or contact us today to learn more about our products, services, and certifications.