As an accredited Conformity Assessment Body through the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), UL Solutions provides independent, accredited third-party manufacturing and process assessments against defined standards. Our Supplier Quality Audits and Certifications program helps minimize supply chain risk, protect brand value, and promote consumer and product safety. Use this Audit Guide to evaluate your readiness for a Supplier Quality Audit.
Success all starts with management
Management has a "defect prevention" culture to achieve continuous quality improvement.
1. Supplier has implemented an effective Corrective Action process and documented procedure which summarizes top/typical defect in key processes
2. All of the top/typical defects with root cause analysis/improvement plan are properly communicated with employees (e.g., post in public area)
3. Supplier conducts training for the top/typical defects with records
1. CAPA SOP and records
2. Defects have root cause analysis and improvement plan
3. Method for communications with employees
4. Training and supporting records for top defects
Management has incorporated 3rd party regulatory requirements for product including those established by UL within its quality planning for production and inspection and test.
1. Supplier has incorporated all aspects and requirements of regulatory agencies within its quality planning and supporting processes
2. Including engineering, purchasing, incoming inspection, production, inspection & test, and packaging
1. Process for taking regulatory requirements (like UL, FDA, RRS) and ensuring they are integrated into all departments
2. Component specs, purchase order verbiage, Bills Of Materials (BOM), test Instructions, product labeling, etc.
A management representative has been identified who has the proper responsibility and authority for the Restricted and Regulated material program requirement.
Supplier representative role and responsibilities for the effective implementation, administration and monitoring of the restricted and regulated material program are defined, documented and active.
1. SOP or other document that defines RRM program representative and duties
Management has established and implemented a documented training program.
1. Supplier has established training process and plans each training program with application scope
2. Supplier performs training per plan and documents training records with qualification status recorded
3. Must include a training program for Restricted & Regulated Substances for appropriate personnel including Internal Auditors
1. SOP for training process
2. Training Plans
3. Training records show qualification status
4. Training program for RRS
5. Training program for internal auditors
Management must provide resources to implement systems for continuous improvement
Metrics and systems are in place to drive and maintain quality improvements.
1. Supplier has established measurable and sufficient quality metrics in system to drive and maintain quality improvement that include defined responsible departments and calculation methods
2. Supplier measures metrics per procedure required and communicates these measured results with related employees (e.g., posted measured results in public area)
1. Defined metrics for quality
2. Defined departments for tracking and calculation methods
3. Tracks metrics per SOP
4. Communication methods and associated records / evidence
Tools, resources, and management support to drive year over year productivity improvements are in place and being utilized Assessment score criteria.
Supplier has established metrics to measure productivity (e.g., yield pass rate; scrap rate); measures productivity per procedure required. Supplier initiates CI event to improve productivity. Supplier documents the CI event properly. Supplier evaluation program is completely defined and well performed to assess the performance of process capability, quality, compliance to requirements for Restricted & Regulated Substances, on time delivery, and service; Supplier drives continuous improvement for all performances.
1. Has SOP and defined metrics for measuring productivity
2. Takes CI to improve productivity metrics (and evidence)
3. Client measures process capability by process (e.g., CpK, PpK indices)
4. Other metrics for quality, RRS, OTD, etc. are measured and monitored by management, and actions taken
5. Records show positive CI trend over time for key metrics
Metrics are in place to measure on time delivery. A process is in place to communicate to the customer, in advance, when the possibility of missing a delivery exists.
Supplier has established on time delivery target with a detailed definition in metrics; Process in place and is implemented with informing customer of potential late delivery, investigating delayed shipment. Records are available.
1. OTD metrics established and monitored, along with evidence
2. Supplier has SOP and defined process to notify customers in advance for missed delivery
3. Records are maintained of these communications
Management has implemented a documented customer complaint review system.
Supplier has established a customer complaint reaction system. Supplier documents all customer complaints with CAR's issued and all CAR's are followed and effectively closed. Supplier has established system to analyze the customer complaint trend to drive CI.
The quality management system must define the key elements that control processes and ensure UL and SharkNinja requirements are met
The Quality System defines Quality plans including identification of controls, processes, equipment, fixtures, resources and skills, etc. Key Characteristics are clearly defined and effectively communicated throughout the business.
Supplier quality system documents all elements of business (e.g., production process, control steps, equipment, resources and skills). All critical characteristics of these elements are clearly defined, identified and communicated to related employees. Supplier has an established, documented, controlled policy, procedure and current list of materials for restricted and regulated material that has been communicated throughout the organization and is subject to internal audit.
1. Supplier has documented Quality Plans
2. Quality Plans include control steps, equipment, resources, skills, etc. for each key process
3. Critical characteristics are clearly identified and communicated to employees
4. SOP for RRS Materials is available
5. Current list of RRS Materials is available
6. Evidence available to show how RRS materials are communicated to company
7. Internal audit includes RRS program
The Quality System includes a robust and effective system for the control and revision of prints/specifications, inspection and testing techniques and Quality System documentation.
Supplier has a documented process to control updating of drawing, specification and etc. Manufacturing process changes are implemented after the change is communicated and approved by the customer. Supplier has an effective ECN process to manage changes to product including any changes to materials or components where Restricted & Regulated material may be impacted the process includes customer notification and approval. Related records are available.
1. Document Control:
a. SOP for document control of drawings, specifications, etc.
b. Includes control of external documents (e.g., customer drawings / specs, test methods, external standards, etc.)
2. Quality Manufacturing Process Changes
a. Changes to manufacturing process, like new equipment, new production line, automation changes, changes in process flow, etc must be documented, communicated, and approved by customer BEFORE implementation
b. Records of these communications and customer approval are available
3. Engineering Change Notice - ECN
a. ECN SOP includes changes to materials or components
b. ECN process must consider impact to RRS materials
c. Process must include customer notification
d. Records of customer notification and approval are available
Employees are adequately trained and actively involved in Corrective Actions, and Continuous Improvement.
Supplier has a CAR/CI training program for employees and training are performed accordingly. Employees participated in CAR/CI activities. Related records are available.
1. Supplier has an SOP and training program related to CAR and CI
2. Evidence / records of this training are available
Quality records are controlled and adequate to verify conformance to specification, conformance to operating procedures and provide problem-solving evidence.
Documented quality record requirements are defined and sufficient to verify all conformances to specifications and operating procedure.
1. Supplier has an SOP for controlling records
Effective supply chain management is a critical control process
A formal supplier/subcontractor qualification program is used when making sourcing decisions. (CCP)
Suppliers/subcontractors qualification program is completely defined and performed as required.
1. SOP established for qualifying vendors
All purchased material requirements are adequately specified and enforced. (CCP)
All materials purchased have detailed specification (or signed samples for reference) defined in document (such as orders, contracts); Effective incoming material quality control process exists can ensure that no defects will go through their system.
1. Purchased materials must have a spec (either defined by SN, the supplier, or if it's a catalog item…then the sub-contractor has a catalog / specification)
2. Purchase orders or contracts must reference the specification number and revision level
3. Incoming Inspection - controls must be in place to prevent defects
Best practices: this could be performing incoming inspection on parts e.g., p/n and revision level check, comparison to PO, visual for damage, dimensional checks on critical characteristics, receipt and review of Certificate of Analysis with data provided for that specific PO (not just a generic Certificate of Compliance), or performance of testing on incoming parts, etc.
Supplier has an approved list of suppliers/subcontractors that include the list of materials/parts/service /process they supplied. (CCP)
Detailed and up to date AVL (approved vendor list) available which includes all necessary and relevant sub-supplier/subcontractor information.
1. Supplier maintains and keeps current an "Approved Vendor List" with relevant information about vendors
Purchase order contracts with 2nd and 3rd tier suppliers identify the Restricted and Regulated material requirements for constituent materials, parts and packaging materials.
Purchase order contracts with 2nd and 3rd tier suppliers clearly identify the Restricted and Regulated material requirements for constituent materials, parts and packaging materials are controlled and verified.
1. POs with vendors must include RRS requirements
2. RRS related materials and components are controlled and verified (e.g., Incoming Inspection verification)
Purchased parts are labeled, controlled, and adequate traceability exists.
All purchased parts are labeled with adequate information to ensure the traceability including certification marks, such as but not limit to inspection status, part #/description, quantity, date of receipt/supply; Has FIFO inventory rotation implemented.
1.This question will be evaluated in the receiving area, warehouse & storage areas, and production areas
2. Supplier must utilize First In First Out (FIFO) inventory management process when pulling materials from warehouse for use in production areas
An ECN process is in place for purchased components including those that may impact Restricted & Regulated materials.
Supplier/Subcontractor process/product change are under control with ECN process in place which clearly defines the communication with customer for related changes and Supplier can only approve changes after get customer approval. Process considers impact on Restricted & Regulated materials. Records available prove the ECN process is effectively followed.
1. Engineering Change Notice - ECN:
a. ECN SOP includes changes to materials or components AND process changes
b. ECN process must consider impact to RRS materials
c. Process must include customer notification
d. Records of customer notification and approval are available
Defining and implementing effective process controls will improve process consistency and improve product quality
A detailed Process Control Plan exists with well-identified process control steps, reaction plans, and critical parameters identified.
Detailed process control plan is developed according to manufacture process maps/flow charts with all key control elements identified such as but not limit to inspection points, critical parameters, related reaction plans when out of spec parts are found. Key Production processes are failure proofed from using restricted substances and monitored for adherence with supporting procedures and records.
1. Control plan must be developed and documented
2. Control plan(s) must include key control elements including:
3. Key processes must ensure RRS materials are controlled
4. Processes must be monitored, and records kept
Setup and operating parameters are documented and monitored during the production run.
Operating and setup parameters are clearly defined. First piece inspection and parameter check are performed and recorded. Instruction defined about reaction for out of control/spec conditions.
1. Supplier must define set up AND operating parameters
2. Set up and operating parameters are verified, and records kept
3. First piece inspection must be performed, and records kept
4. Supplier must have instructions that define reaction plan for out of spec conditions
Critical tooling (dies, molds, fixtures etc.) are verified prior to use and maintained appropriately.
Critical tooling is properly identified, pre-production verification procedure is completely defined, and tooling is verified to ensure they are in appropriate working condition. Related preventive maintenance is documented and recorded.
1.
Critical tooling has identification that is traceable to records
2.
SOP defines "pre-production" verification (e.g., First Article inspection, set up validation, etc.)
3.
Set up must include verification of tooling operating in good working condition
4. A system for preventive maintenance must be established in an SOP and records of PM maintained
Critical tooling (dies, molds, fixtures etc.) are verified prior to use and maintained appropriately.
Procedure is completely set up so that qualified operators can stop the line when defective material or assembly are identified. The records of training, qualification and operation are available.
1. The SOP should specify that operators have the authority to stop the production line when NC product is found
2. Records of training are available
3. The auditor may collect names of operators in multiple production areas, then sample training records for this training
In-process and final product is adequately identified and uniquely traceable to: materials used, equipment maintenance, and calibration.
In-process and final product is adequately identified as work instruction required, identification includes but not limit to lot#, production date, operator's information or any other specific data allows to trace product back to whole manufacture process.
1. Product Identification and status includes:
2.
Traceability: Supplier must be able to trace back and link the production lot back to the equipment used, calibrated test equipment or inspection gauges used, etc.
Product identification is adequate to clearly identify products in the event of defective material reaching our facilities.
Adequate identification on product required to ensure traceability in the event of defects reach out customer facility or end user, the identification information includes but not limited to PO#, lot#, date code, manufacturer/product ID.
1.
In the event of a customer complaint about products: Traceability must include ability for supplier to trace back to the production date, materials used (including link back to supplier lots), equipment used, inspection and test equipment used, operators who built product, etc.
The disposition of manufacturing components is monitored and recorded.
Procedure is completely defined to monitor scrap, rejections. Scrap and rejections are accounted and properly disposed with record available.
1. SOP defines the requirement to monitor scrap and non-conformances
2. Supplier keeps records that show disposition of non-compliances including "Use As Is", "Rework", "Scrap", etc.
Work instructions and work standards are available for operators’ reference at an accessible place or workstation.
Work instructions are controlled documents and up to date versions are posted nearby workstation for operator reference. Operator is trained and performs as work instruction required.
1.
Work instructions, job aids, and other documents required for the operator to perform their tasks must be controlled AND located near the operator
2.
Operators must be trained
3.
Operator performs tasks per the documents
Robust in-process and final inspection/test processes contribute to improved compliance with safety and quality requirements
Incoming/Receiving inspection requirements, sampling plan and acceptance criteria for incoming inspections are defined with complete records.
Incoming/Receiving inspection is properly designed consistent with process map. Inspection instruction is completely defined, including but not limit to check item/ method, sampling size, acceptance criteria, defect classification, according to product specification or customer requirement and includes the verification of compliance to requirements for Restricted & Regulated substances. Records are well maintained and include authority for the release of incoming/receiving material. Non-compliances are documented and subject to formal corrective action.
Incoming Inspection must be defined and documented. Must include:
1.
Check item/method (e.g., What specific parameters will be checked?), sample size (How many out of received lot?), acceptance criteria (What's OK? What's not OK?), defect classification (Where applicable, some defects may be minor, others may be major), etc.
2.
Must also include verification of materials, components, etc., for RRS
3.
Incoming Inspection records must be kept, and must show who accepted the materials (e.g., "authority for release")
4.
Any non-compliances found in Incoming Inspection must be documented AND supplier must take corrective action
In-Process inspection requirements, sampling plan and acceptance criteria for in process inspections are defined at the appropriate stages in the process.
In-process inspection is properly designed consistent with process map. Inspection instruction is completely defined, including but not limit to check item/ method, sampling size, acceptance criteria, defect classification, according to product specification or customer requirement.
In-process Inspection must be defined and documented. Must include:
1. Check item / method (e.g. What specific parameters will be checked?)
2. Sample size (How many out of production lot? First article inspection or 100% production?)
3. Acceptance criteria (What’s OK? What’s not OK?)
4. Defect classification (where applicable, some defects may be minor, others may be major), etc.
Production Line testing requirements including sampling plans, acceptance criteria, capability, verification defined at the appropriate stages in the process.
Production line testing is properly designed consistent with process map. Testing instructions are completely defined, including but not limit to check item/method, sampling size, acceptance criteria, defect classification, according to product specification or customer requirement.
1. Supplier has defined/documented process for production line testing
2. Must include sampling (if not 100%)
3. Equipment functional check/verification each shift or day
4. Acceptance criteria (What is OK? What is not OK?)
5. Defect handling/classification, etc.
6. These in-process controls must also include any UL Mark safety related testing requirements
In-process inspections are performed as planed and results are properly recorded.
In-process product inspection is performed as required and completely documented. The results are monitored with control charts. NCR's & CAR's are triggered and properly executed to closure.
1.
In-process inspections must be performed as planned (e.g., per Control Plan, or per SOP or Work Instruction)
2.
Results of in-process inspections must be recorded
3.
Supplier monitors in-process inspection results with control charts
4. Supplier must generate Non-Compliance Reports (NCR)s and Corrective Action Reports (CAR) for in-process inspection are initiated and completed when "trigger" levels are reached (e.g., criteria for when CAR is required must be defined)
Finished Product inspection and test requirements, sampling plan and acceptance criteria for finished product inspections are clearly defined and carried out as planned.
Finished product inspection instruction is completely defined including but not limit to check item/ method, sampling size, acceptance criteria, defect classification according to product specification or customer requirement. Procedure in place to dispose rejected finished product.
Finished Product Inspection must be defined and documented. Must include:
1. Check item/method (e.g., What specific parameters will be checked?)
2. Sample size (How many out of production lot?)
3. Acceptance criteria (What’s OK? What’s not OK?)
4. Defect classification (Where applicable, some defects may be minor, others may be major.), etc.
5. Supplier must have a process to disposition rejected finished product (e.g., Material Review Board, or QA disposition, etc.).
Effective calibration and preventive maintenance programs provide confidence in the accuracy and consistency of compliance measurements
A formal calibration program including: identification, calibration intervals, traceability, and calibration method/equipment exist with fully documented calibration procedures, adequately trained resources and maintenance of records
Calibration procedure is completely defined. All gages and measurement instruments that are used for inspection/process control are calibrated and in valid date. Records/reports are available. Operators are qualified for internal calibration (if applicable). Calibration records are well maintained.
1.
The Supplier must have a documented procedure defining the calibration process
2.
The calibration system must include all Inspection, Measuring, and Test Equipment (IMTE) used to verify compliance with requirements
3.
All IMTE must be calibrated and within current valid dates
4.
If calibration is performed in-house, then personnel performing calibration must be trained and qualified
5.
Calibration records must be maintained and available
6.
For additional requirements, please refer to UL Calibration Requirements document available on www.ul.com
Quality measurement and control equipment, including tools and fixtures that are used for inspection, are sufficient to assure conformance to requirements.
All gages and measurement equipment that are used for inspection are in good working condition with valid calibrated status. Operators can demonstrate correctly in the use of gages, measurement instruments and fixtures. Gages are capable of the measurement required / per specification (1 decimal place more than the spec require).
1.
All IMTE used are to be kept in good working condition with a current calibration status
2.
Operators must be knowledgeable about the use of IMTE
3.
IMTE must be capable of precision required for the measurement
4.
For example, if measurement requires +/- 0.01 precision, then IMTE must be able to measure +/- 0.001 (one decimal place more)
Preventative maintenance cycles are documented and on schedule.
Preventive maintenance program is completely defined and includes daily weekly and monthly maintenance separately if necessary. The PM is well performed according to schedule and recorded. Maintenance emergencies are investigated, and preventive steps added to PM schedule.
1.
SOP defines preventive maintenance program; frequency for performing PM must be defined
2.
A system for preventive maintenance must be established in an SOP and records of PM maintained
3.
Unscheduled maintenance activities and unscheduled machine down time must be investigated; records must be available to show where PM schedules have been updated as a result of analysis of unscheduled maintenance
Effective controls for handling potential defects will reduce chances of non-conformances being shipped to customer
Non-conforming purchased products or materials are adequately identified to prevent further use, moved out of the normal process flow when possible, and recorded in a central database for management reporting.
All non-conforming products/materials are clearly identified and segregated, non-conforming areas are clearly marked and identified. Non-conforming products/materials are recorded and tracked.
1.
Purchased products, components or materials that are found to be non-conforming must be identified to prevent further use
2.
Where possible, these materials should be moved out of the normal process flow (unless it's impractical to do so)
3.
These non-conforming products must be recorded and tracked in a database for analysis by management
Suspect non-conforming in-process and final products and material is adequately identified to prevent further use, moved out of the normal process flow when possible, and recorded in a central database for management reporting.
All non-conforming products/materials are clearly identified and segregated, non-conforming areas are clearly marked and identified. Non-conforming products/materials are recorded and tracked.
1.
Identify suspect and non-conforming materials and products with ID, tag, label, or some method so individuals will know the status
2.
These materials should be segregated, unless there is no means to do so (e.g., automated conveyor line)
3.
Method must be in place to show these non-conformances are recorded in a central database AND reported to management
Non-conforming product is subjected to review by qualified, designated persons prior to introduction back into the normal process flow.
Supplier has a documented process for reviewing and handling defective products/materials, including reviewing by authorized person, reworking and re-inspection prior to back to normal production process. All activities should be recorded and tracked.
1. The supplier must establish a process for dispositioning defective or non-conforming products
2. This includes having defined authority for making this disposition (e.g., Material Review Board or similar role)
3. Any non-conforming product that is re-worked to bring it back into compliance must be re-inspected before returning to the production process
4. All non-conforming product activities (per above) must be recorded and tracked
Steps for dealing with non-conforming materials are set out in documented procedures with examples of tags, forms and reports.
Supplier has a complete procedure to deal with non-conforming materials/products, the documentation has all tags/forms/reports template developed with up-to-date version in use including reinspection or test following rework or repair.
1.
The supplier must have a defined SOP for dealing with NC products
2.
This includes defining the use of tags, forms and reports
3.
Any non-conforming product that is reworked or repaired must be re-inspected and/or re-tested before being returned to production
Effective corrective and preventive actions reduce the likelihood of recurrence and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement
A formal corrective action system exists to assure effective closure and follow-up of customer and internal problems and complaints. Is the same system used for both internal and customer corrective actions?
A formal Corrective/Preventative Action (CAPA) system/procedure is completely defined to deal with customer and internal problems/complaints. CAPAs are effectively followed and closed in the required timeline. CAPAs are documented and records are available.
1. Effective CAPA process must be established for these non-conformance categories:
a. Non-conforming components or raw materials incoming (vendor NCs)
b. Non-conforming product in production, test and final areas
c. Customer Complaints
d. Internal Audits
2.
OK to have a central CAPA process, or separate CAPA processes for each category; if separate, then SOP required for each category
3.
Records must show CAPAs are tracked, verified, and closed for effectiveness within required time frame
When preventive measures are implemented, the effect is verified and monitored to ensure that the desired goals are being met.
Supplier has set a goal for implemented preventive measures. Status and results of preventive actions are properly monitored and verified against the goal. Adjustment of the corrective actions are made when needed to achieve goals.
1.
Goal(s) established for preventive actions
2.
Goals tracked and verified, and if not met then Corrective Action adjusted
3.
System for preventive measures must be established; it can be part of CAPA process or separate Preventive Action process
Permanent changes resulting from corrective/preventive actions are recorded in work instructions, manufacturing and test processes, control plan, training documents etc.
All permanent changes from corrective/preventive actions are recorded in SOP/WI, manufacturing process, inspections and test processes, training document.
1.
When corrective actions require updates, then revisions are made to applicable documents such as Work Instructions, SOPs, Control Plans, etc.
2.
Evidence should be available to show examples where documents have been revised as part of corrective actions implemented
Effective document control systems include both internal and external documents corrective and ensure current requirements are available and used
The supplier maintains a master List to preclude the use of invalid or obsolete documents.
Document control procedure is completely defined. Supplier has a latest "Master List" of controlled documents. Documents in use is up-to-date version, which is aligned with the Master List. Old documents are removed from points of reference.
1.
Request a copy of the document control procedure
2.
Review the Master List for completeness and accuracy (ensure all controlled documents are listed)
3.
Ask how they identify and remove obsolete documents (look for documented procedures or examples)
4.
Verify access control measures are implemented for the Master List
Manufacturing, process and configuration documents are under issue control.
All SOPs/Work Instructions are controlled by revision level and released by a central location. All controlled documents are without handwritten changes and are not mixed with uncontrolled documents.
1.
Review the document control procedure for details on issuing and revising documents
2.
Observe the process for distributing documents (e.g., controlled distribution lists)
3.
Verify version control methods are implemented (e.g., revision history on documents)
4.
Interview personnel on the shop floor to confirm they are using the latest revisions
5.
Look for evidence of obsolete document retrieval (e.g., marked "obsolete" or physically removed from use)
Employees are adequately trained and actively involved in Corrective Actions, and Continuous Improvement.
Document changes procedure is completely defined. Key users are informed of changes and have active participation on the document change.
1.
Request training records for document control procedures
2.
Interview employees to assess their understanding of the system (e.g., how to identify current documents, reporting document issues)
3.
Review corrective action records to see if employees are involved in identifying document-related issues
4.
If applicable, review CI records to see if document updates or improvements were implemented as part of CI activities
The document control system ensures that the most current customer specifications are available to, and used by, manufacturing personnel.
Procedure is completely defined to ensure the latest customer specifications/requirements are communicated throughout the manufacturing personnel. Customer specifications/requirements in use are up to date.
1.
Review the document control procedure for how customer specifications are received, reviewed, and distributed
2.
Verify the latest customer specifications are included in the Master List
3.Observe the shop floor environment to see if customer specifications are accessible (e.g., readily available near workstations)
4. Interview manufacturing personnel to confirm they are aware of and using the latest customer specifications
Raw materials, in-process materials, and finished products must be identified, packaged, and protected to minimize damage throughout the factory
Raw material is adequately protected and identified as to its type and status throughout operations from incoming, storage and in-process operations. This includes reprocessed, recycled, reground or scrap materials.
All raw material is adequately protected and identified as to its type and status throughout operations from incoming, storage and in-process operations. This includes reprocessed, recycled, reground, or scrap materials.
1.
Review the documented procedures for raw material handling
2.
Observe the receiving and inspection process for raw materials
3.
Verify identification methods are used throughout storage and in-process operations (e.g., lot numbers on containers, labels)
4.
Examine storage areas to see if materials are
properly segregated and protected (e.g., FIFO system, separate areas for scrap or rework)
5. Review procedures and observe practices for handling reprocessed/recycled materials
Work In Progress (WIP) is adequately identified as to its status, legibly and durably labeled and stored in an appropriate way.
All WIPs are adequately identified with sufficient information, including but not limited to status, part description and stage of the process, Part Number, Lot number, Quantity, Manufacturing date etc. All WIPs are stored in an appropriate way (protected/ separated).
1.
Review documented procedures for WIP identification and storage
2.
Observe how WIP is labeled on the shop floor (clarity, durability)
3.
Verify designated storage areas are used for WIP and ensure proper organization (e.g., by part number, stage of production)
Product handling & storage is adequate to safeguard mechanical shock, environmental damage and damage within the plant.
All WIPs and final products are properly packed and protected against environmental conditions, mechanical damage, material handling, and storage damage.
1.
Review documented procedures for product handling and storage
2.
Observe product handling practices on the shop floor (e.g., proper lifting techniques, use of protective equipment)
3.
Verify environmental controls are implemented and monitored (e.g., temperature gauges, humidity controls)
4.
Inspect storage areas to confirm appropriate storage (e.g., designated areas, no risk of damage from stacking or neighboring items)
Product packaging meets customer specifications and includes all marking requirements.
All WIPs and final products are properly packed and protected against environmental conditions, mechanical damage, material handling, and storage damage.
1.
Review documented procedures for product packaging and labeling
2.
Verify the supplier has access to and references the latest customer specifications for packaging
3.
Observe the packaging process to see if specifications are followed
4. Examine finished products to confirm correct labeling and markings are present
RRS controls must be implemented throughout the QMS. This means RRS is documented in vendor specs, checked at incoming, included in production documents, verified annually, and documents are updated any time components or materials change.
Supplier performs a Restricted and Regulated material compliance review in which the scope covers all the materials used and expected to exist in the final product, including supplementary materials. The review is documented and updated as changes in components, materials and suppliers occur.
Supplier performs a Restricted and Regulated material compliance review in which the scope covers all the materials used and expected to exist in the final product, including supplementary materials. The review is documented and updated as changes in components, materials, and suppliers occur. Related records are available.
1.
The supplier must perform a Restricted and Regulated Material (RRM) compliance review
2.
The scope of the review must include all materials used and expected to exist in the final product including supplementary materials
3.
The review is documented and retained
4.
The review must be updated when changes occur
5.
Records must be maintained
Supplier has incorporated SharkNinja Restricted and Regulated material requirements within their QMS including procedures, drawing and specifications and are available to all key personnel of functional departments.
SharkNinja Restricted and Regulated material requirements are effectively incorporated within procedures, drawings and specifications and are available to all key personnel of functional departments.
1.
SharkNinja requirements for RRM must be incorporated
into procedures, drawings, specs, etc.
2.
These documents must be available to key personnel
Supplier has an appropriate review process including records for monitoring the Restricted and Regulated substance performance of the suppliers of raw materials/components according to SharkNinja Restricted and Regulated materials requirements.
Supplier's Purchasing organization has an effectively implemented review process including records for monitoring the Restricted and Regulated substance performance of their suppliers of raw materials/components according to SharkNinja Restricted and Regulated materials requirements.
1.
The supplier must have a review process for monitoring RRM of suppliers who provide raw materials/components
2.
The review must include comparison / compliance with SharkNinja RRM requirements
3.
Records of these reviews must be available
There is defined process to verify the testing reports/certificates and declarations/compliance agreement/guarantee letter for Restricted & Regulated Substances from sub-suppliers/sub-contractors.
Supplier has defined process to verify the testing reports/certificates and declarations/ compliance agreement/guarantee letter for Restricted & Regulated Substances from sub-suppliers/sub-contractors including records.
1.
The supplier must have a process to verify test reports, certificates, and declarations, compliance agreements, guarantee letters for RRM of sub-suppliers and sub-contractors
2.
This includes tier 2 and tier 3 suppliers (i.e., not just direct suppliers to the manufacturer, but next level down suppliers to those suppliers)
3.
Records of these reviews must be available
Periodic 3rd party testing on critical components or materials for Restricted and Regulated Substances is performed annually or at shorter intervals for high-risk materials or components.
Periodic 3rd party testing on critical components or materials for Restricted and Regulated Substances is performed annually per plan or at shorter intervals for high-risk materials or components utilizing an accredited laboratory.
1.
The supplier must show records of 3rd party testing of critical components and materials for items identified as RRM.
2.
SN will accept RoHS and related RRM testing results performed by laboratories located in-house.
3.
The frequency is annual testing OR more frequent if the materials / components are high risk.
4.
The testing must be performed by an accredited laboratory.
Section 2: Senior management is responsible for establishing a mindset and culture of “Continuous Improvement”. This requirement applies to manufacturing processes, inspection and testing, final quality checks, as well as supporting processes including customer complaints, purchasing, supplier performance monitoring, product safety issues (such as UL Variation Notices), customer complaints, and other metrics that influence safety and quality. Common best practices include, but are not limited, to the following:
Senior management must establish metrics for On-Time Delivery (OTD) and keep records. There must be a documented process for notifying customers in advance if a shipment will be late for any reason. Records of the notifications must be kept.
Section 3 requires Senior Management to devote the appropriate resources to develop and implement an effective quality management system. This section requires:
The supplier’s training program must include Corrective Action training and Continuous Improvement training. This should include the functions and departments likely to be involved in the investigation, containment, and corrective action implementation activities OR Continous Improvement activities.
Examples – the Work Instructions for specified workstations/steps; the fixture and jigs; mechanical counters; electronic sensors, job sheet; bar coding with software integration and control; marking; training; visual checks; automation.
For production line#1 (SN model# HD430):
For production line#1 (Model# HD430):
For Production Line#1:
The production record should contain the product traceability information (e.g., Lot #, date, production Line #, operator, etc.).
The product shall bear the information (e.g., SN, date, or code) to trace back to the production record (e.g., components used, test performed, inspection record, etc).
In case of non-compliant products, the supplier should have a process to identify and isolate the non-compliant product. There should be a way to distinguish the non-compliant product from the compliant products.
The non-compliant product should be disposed properly. Only the product meeting all the requirements can bear the UL Mark.
There should be a qualification process (e.g., training, qualification) for the operator. The Wis should be accessible to the operators. The WIs should be controlled to ensure the updated version is used.
In Production Line#1:
The supplier maintains a well-documented procedure for managing controlled documents, as outlined in the Document Control Procedure. Key elements include:
Additional Considerations:
The supplier demonstrates robust control over issuing and revising manufacturing, process, and configuration documents, as outlined in the Document Control Procedure. Key elements include:
Additional Considerations:
The supplier provides comprehensive training on document control procedures, which includes:
Additional Points:
The latest customer specifications were consistently included in the master list. During the shop floor observation, personnel were able to locate and access the most recent customer specifications. Printed copies were strategically placed near workstations and consistently updated. Additionally, a system for electronic access at workstations ensures immediate access to the latest versions.
Additional Points:
Supplier Procedures for Handling Raw Materials
The supplier maintains well-documented procedures for handling raw materials, ensuring their proper protection and identification from receiving to point of use.
Additional Considerations:
Supplier System for Identifying and Storing WIP
The supplier has a well-defined system for identifying and storing Work In Process (WIP).
Reviewed WIP for below parts:
Supplier Practices for Safeguarding Finished Products
The supplier has implemented practices to safeguard finished products from damage during handling and storage.
Additional Considerations:
Supplier Compliance with Customer Packaging Specifications
The supplier ensures packaging meets customer specifications and includes all required markings.
Additional Considerations: