Gloucestershire Managed Services Medical Engineering Team passes ISO 9001 certification

Medical Engineering have recently passed their annual external surveillance audit for continued certification to the International Quality Management Standard ISO 9001.

Front Left – Steve Webb Quality Manager / Joanne Arnold Deputy Quality Manager; Middle Left – Andrew Stallard / Simon Berry / Mark Gilbert; Back left – Viktor Karafotias / Kimarley Robinson / Mark Taylor

Medical Engineering was among the first NHS engineering departments in the UK to achieve this certification in 1998, and has proudly maintained it ever since.

ISO 9001 serves as a universal framework that assists businesses of any scale or sector in clearly defining and meeting, if not surpassing, both internal and customer expectations. It outlines the optimal management of processes, documentation, monitoring, feedback, and the addressing of risks, complaints, and opportunities, as well as the pursuit of continuous improvement.

The Quality Management System is adhered to throughout the year, with regular internal audits and an annual external audit assessing adherence. The external audit involves a thorough spot-check of evidence for compliance with each section of the Standard. This process includes engaging with staff, examining systems and documentation, and inspecting equipment in the workshops. It highlights any non-conformities, establishes deadlines for correction, and verifies their resolution. Additionally, it offers recommendations for potential enhancements.

ISO 9001 certification is particularly advantageous for Medical Engineering, given the critical nature of their healthcare work, their extensive and diverse customer base, and the multitude of service delivery locations. Certification from an external accredited body provides formal reassurance and, from a GMS perspective, strengthens our competitive edge for private sector work, including GP surgeries, care homes, and charity-operated hospitals.

Thank you to the Quality Team and all Medical Engineering staff for supporting our ISO System.