Werkers se persepsies van 'n kwaliteitstandaard (SABS 0157)

Abstract

The primary aim of this research project has been to establish the perceptions of people with regard to the relation of their listed clients and SABS/ISO 9000 in general. This research was aimed at a specific group of people namely the small engineering companies that have to comply with SABS/ISO 9000 specifications although they are not listed by SABS/ISO 9000 themselves. The research was executed by means of a limited study with regard to various quality aspects and an explanation of the contents of the SABS/ISO 9000 Code of Practice for Quality Systems. An empirical investigation was executed by means of a questionnaire that was aimed at establishing the perceptions of respondents with regard to the relation of their listed clients and SABS/ISO 9000. The research was limited to small - and medium sized engineering companies within the Vaal Triangle region. Due to this reason the given results can not be accepted as being generally valid throughout the industry. The research results indicate that a definite negative perception does exist between the respondents and the relation of their

listed clients and SABS/ISO 9000 in general. Possible reasons for the given perceptions are listed and recommendations are made of how the problems can be overcome. The author makes a few suggestions that can be used as a foundation on which to solve this problem. It includes the convening of the National Committee of ISO/TC176 - Quality Assurance to focus their attention on the problem. It is further proposed that a regional taskgroup be initiated to enhance closer contact between A-type and B-type- companies. Other proposals are discussed in more detail and consequential research topics are identified.