American Hofmann
Achieves ISO Certification
The Company
American Hofmann Corporation (AHC) produces high precision balancing equipment for use in the automotive, aircraft, and a wide variety of other industries. The equipment has many applications for rotors weighing 1 ounce or less and up to 100,000 pounds, with or without manual or fully automatic correction. In business for over 35 years, AHC began as a small operation in New Jersey, then moved its production and sales facilities to Lynchburg, VA, in 1974. Lynchburg is now the corporate and manufacturing headquarters with over 100,000 square feet of working space. They employ over 100 people at that facility. All aspects of the design and production of AHC balancing systems are conveniently housed under one roof. Years of experience, industry proven technology, and commitment to their customers continue to distinguish AHC as the leader in the balancing industry.
The Situation
AHC applied for ISO certification in recent years without success. In a previous attempt, more money and time was spent than necessary with no positive results. Management was aware of the necessity and the benefits of being ISO certified, but could not pull this together alone. VPMEP was then approached for help. At this point management was firmly committed and focused to make this attempt successful with VPMEP’s assistance.
The Response
VPMEP brought in Russell Thurston, an ISO 9000 consultant, to assess why a previous attempt at certification had failed. This knowledge would aid in mapping the next steps towards successful completion. Russell had the full commitment of top management and the Quality Management Team (QMT). Several steps were put into place in order to get started: management and company wide awareness training; implementation plans for bridging gaps; producing a quality system manual; document training; locating an auditor training course; conducting an internal audit; corrective action plan; and conducting a final pre-assessment audit.
The Results
AHC was able to achieve ISO certification through renewed commitment by management, QMT, and staff in April 2001. Since the beginning of this year, AHC like many other manufacturing firms, has experienced a downward trend in incoming orders. Therefore, it is rather difficult to estimate the positive, quantitative results the ISO certification has resulted in so soon after certification. However, the certification has had and will continue to have a very positive effect on product quality and the overall quality and efficiency of operations. Since certification in April, there have been some notable improvements in:
- Tracking and documenting design changes
- Documenting non-conformities
- Tracking customer parts
- Improved communication between departments
Management's Comment
"VPMEP has helped AHC to understand the ISO Standards and what ISO certification could do for AHC. VPMEP guided AHC from understanding, documenting, training, implementing, and auditing to being ISO certified," said Becky McCraw, AHC's ISO management representative.
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