In a globalized world in which product quality and safety have the highest priority, the certification of plastic products is an indispensable tool. It ensures that products not only comply with legal requirements, but also meet the high expectations of consumers. Certification can also boost customer confidence and provide access to new markets. But how exactly does the certification process work?
1. analysis of requirements and standards: The starting point for every certification
The first step in the certification process is to identify the relevant standards and requirements that apply to your plastic product. These standards can be international such as ISO or DIN or include specific industry standards.
Steps:
- Research standards: Start by researching the standards relevant to your product, such as ISO, DIN or industry-specific standards.
- Document requirements: Create a list of the specific requirements that your product must fulfill. This should include both technical and safety-related criteria.
MEDIAN’s tip: Seek advice from experts to ensure that you take all relevant norms and standards into account. This will avoid expensive delays later on in the process.
2. thorough preparation for documentation and technical data
Thorough preparation is the be-all and end-all for successful certification. This involves collecting all the relevant technical data and documentation for your product.
Steps:
- Document the material composition: Record the exact composition of the plastics used in your product.
- Describe the production processes: Document the production processes and the machines used in detail.
- List the quality assurance methods: Explain which quality assurance methods are used during production.
MEDIAN’s tip: Detailed and well-structured documentation makes the work of the certification bodies easier and shortens the certification process.
3. practical testing of your plastic product under real conditions
The documentation is followed by practical testing of your plastic product. Independent laboratories test the product for various criteria such as mechanical properties, chemical resistance and environmental compatibility.
Steps:
- Select suitable laboratories: Choose an accredited laboratory that has experience with the specific requirements of your industry.
- Carry out test procedures: Ensure that all relevant tests are carried out to demonstrate compliance with the standards.
- Document the test results: Record all test results in detail so that you can use them in the further certification process.
MEDIAN’s tip: Hire a laboratory that also offers consulting services to ensure that your product is optimally prepared for the tests.
4. audits and inspections to ensure production quality
In addition to product testing, certification bodies often carry out audits and inspections to ensure compliance with quality standards in production.
Steps:
- Check the production facilities: Have your production processes and facilities audited by the certification body.
- Optimize internal processes: Use the audit as an opportunity to identify weaknesses and improve your internal processes.
- Schedule regular audits: Rely on regular audits to ensure continuous compliance with standards.
MEDIAN’s tip: Prepare your production facilities thoroughly for the audit by identifying and eliminating potential weaknesses in advance.
5. certification and re-certification as the final step to success
After successful testing and inspection, your product is certified. However, this is not a one-off process, but requires regular inspections to ensure compliance with the high standards on a permanent basis.
Steps:
- Apply for the certificate: Submit all the necessary documents and evidence to obtain the certificate for your product.
- Plan re-certifications: Make sure you comply with the requirements for regular re-certifications to extend the validity of the certificate.
- Document production and process adjustments: If adjustments are made during the production cycle, document them and have them recertified if necessary.
MEDIAN’s tip: Keep track of the validity period of your certificates and plan for re-certifications in good time to avoid interruptions in product availability.
Conclusion: Certification as a seal of quality
The certification of plastic products is a demanding process, but one that offers numerous advantages. A certified product not only meets the high quality and safety requirements, but also strengthens customer confidence and opens up new market opportunities. The path to certification begins with a thorough analysis, requires careful preparation and concludes with comprehensive tests and audits.
At MEDIAN, we have many years of experience in the certification of plastic products. We support you in every step of the process – from identifying the relevant standards to technical documentation and preparing for audits. Let us work together to ensure that your products meet the highest quality standards and are successful on the market.
