What Certifications to Look for on the MFG Manufacturing Directory
MFG Manufacturing Directory: Certifications
In the manufacturing industry, certifications, accreditations, and designations play a critical role. They represent a manufacturer’s commitment to quality, adherence to industry standards, and compliance with regulations. These acronyms aren’t just impressive titles, either—they instill confidence in customers and can also lead to profitable new business opportunities in manufacturing.
Our objective here is to explain the importance of various certifications in manufacturing, their specific roles, and how they can open doors for businesses. Additionally we’ll show how you can use the MFG.com directory as a comprehensive tool to find certified manufacturers, ensuring a perfect match for every project requirement.
ISO
ISO certifications are common in the manufacturing industry, providing assurance that businesses adhere to structured processes with high standards. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental organization that establishes standards for various business operations, including manufacturing. Manufacturers holding ISO certifications undergo yearly audits to maintain their status, and although ISO drafts certification criteria, independent third-party organizations perform the actual assessments.
MFG maintains an ISO certification database of manufacturers, featuring common certifications like the following:
- ISO 9001 – As a Quality Management System (QMS) standard, ISO 9001 certification proves that a manufacturer has demonstrated they consistently provide quality products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements. ISO 9001 is associated with both continued improvement and customer satisfaction.
- ISO 14001 – This certification sets the standards for Environmental Management Systems (EMS). Manufacturers holding this certification commit to sustainable practices, including waste reduction and resource-efficient processes. ISO 14001 reflects a manufacturer’s dedication to minimizing their environmental footprint.
- ISO/TS 16949 – This standard is specific to the automotive industry, affirming that a manufacturer meets high-quality production standards for vehicles. ISO/TS 16949 emphasizes defect prevention, variation reduction, and waste in the supply chain, assuring consumers of the manufacturer’s commitment to automotive quality standards.
ITAR
The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) govern the manufacturing and distribution of defense-related products. ITAR-compliant manufacturers, typically based entirely in the US, adhere to rigorous data governance rules and strict regulations.
While there isn’t a formal ITAR certification, manufacturers who comply with ITAR regulations self-identify in the MFG database.
NADCAP
NADCAP, or the National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program, requires a strict, performance-based certification process conducted by the Performance Review Institute, in coordination with the US government and the aerospace industry. NADCAP-accredited suppliers abide by rigorous standards for materials, documentation, equipment, consistency, and more to serve the aerospace industry.
HUBZone
Historically Underutilized Business (HUBZone) certified companies are predominantly owned by US citizens or entities like an Indian Tribal Government, Alaska Native Corporation, Community Development Corporation, Native Hawaiian Organization, or Small Agricultural Cooperative. When winning a federal government project, HUBZone businesses receive a 10 percent price evaluation preference in full and open competition procurements.
IATF 16949
Developed by the International Automotive Task Force, the IATF 16949 certification focuses on maintaining manufacturing quality for businesses related to the automotive industry. This certification holds recipients accountable for upholding best practices when designing, manufacturing, and assembling automotive products within their facility.
MIL (MIL I-45208-A is our most common)
The MIL I-45208-A certification, also known as Military Specification (MIL-SPEC), is a US Department of Defense standard. This certification ensures that manufacturers meet stringent quality requirements necessary for the production of military-grade equipment. If you are looking for manufacturers that maintain high reliability and performance standards, consider those holding the MIL I-45208-A certification.
OHSAS
The Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series, more commonly known as OHSAS 18001, highlights a manufacturer’s dedication to creating and maintaining a safe and healthy workplace. The international standard provides a framework to identify, control, and decrease the risks associated with health and safety within the organization. Manufacturers adhering to OHSAS 18001 demonstrate a strong commitment to the well-being of their employees, boosting their reputation and confidence among stakeholders.
Veteran-owned
Veteran-owned businesses are those primarily owned and operated by those who have served in the military. This certification signifies a manufacturer’s commitment to supporting those who have served in our country, often helping them secure contracts with government and public sector organizations that prioritize working with veteran-owned businesses.
Woman-owned or WOSB
The woman-owned or WOSB certification indicates that a business is at least 51 percent owned, controlled, operated, and managed by one or more women. The federal government uses this certification to achieve its goal of awarding at least five percent of federal contracting dollars to women-owned small businesses each year. Manufacturers with this certification can leverage it to gain access to specific contracts and opportunities that prioritize female entrepreneurship.
Minority-owned
A minority-owned business certification denotes that a company is at least 51 percent owned, managed and controlled by one or more individuals from a minority background (including but not limited to: Black, Hispanic, Native American, Asian-Pacific, Subcontinent Asian). The Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certification can open the door to specific grants, loans, and contracts not available to other companies. This certification is a testament to the diversity of a manufacturer’s leadership and their commitment to inclusive business practices.
Using the MFG.com Directory
The MFG.com directory is a powerful, user-friendly platform designed for buyers searching for certified manufacturers. The directory interface provides straightforward navigation, allowing you to quickly identify manufacturers that meet your specific certification requirements.
Upon opening a manufacturer’s page, you’ll find visual components displaying their certifications, making it easier to verify their qualifications at a glance. For more detailed inquiries, all relevant information regarding the manufacturer’s certifications is listed in a dedicated section on the right side of the page.
One of the most valuable features of the MFG.com directory is its advanced filtering capability. If you’re looking for manufacturers with specific certifications, you can simply apply the relevant filters. This functionality enables you to refine your search efficiently, presenting you with a curated list of manufacturers who hold the certifications crucial to your project’s success.
Whether you’re interested in ISO certifications, ITAR compliance, NADCAP accreditation, or others, the MFG.com directory serves as a comprehensive resource for matching with a manufacturer best aligned to your project needs and organizational values.
