Certification Standards
EQS provides expert consulting, auditing, and training for the certification standards that matter most to manufacturers, aerospace suppliers, medical device companies, and food producers.
Every certification we support shares a common goal: helping your organization build a quality management system that maximizes efficiency, increases your bottom line, and earns the confidence of your customers, regulators, and supply chain partners.
Certification Standards We Support
Four globally recognized standards, each tailored to specific industries and operational goals.
The Global Standard for Quality
ISO 9001 is an internationally recognized standard for quality management systems. It applies to any organization, in any industry, that wants to demonstrate consistent quality, operational control, and a commitment to continuous improvement. For many manufacturers, ISO 9001 certification is the foundation that supports every other standard. This certification is a tool for business management and opens the door for your business to become efficient and effective.
Medical Device Quality Management
ISO 13485 is the quality management standard built specifically for medical device manufacturers and suppliers. It addresses regulatory compliance, risk management, product traceability, and patient safety throughout the entire product lifecycle. This certification is a tool for business management and opens the door for your business to become efficient and effective.
Aerospace Quality Management
AS9100 is the quality management standard for aerospace, aviation, and defense organizations. Built on ISO 9001 with additional requirements for product safety, configuration control, risk management, and supply chain oversight, AS9100 is the gateway to the aerospace supply chain. EQS also supports AS9110 (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) and AS9120 (Aerospace Distribution) certifications.
Safe Quality Food Certification
SQF is a globally recognized food safety and quality certification program for manufacturers, processors, and distributors. It helps organizations manage food safety risks, meet retailer and regulatory requirements, and demonstrate a commitment to safe, compliant food production. This certification is a tool for business management and opens the door for your business to become efficient and effective.
Why Certification Matters
For manufacturers, certification is more than a compliance milestone. Standards like ISO 9001, AS9100, ISO 13485, and SQF establish structured management systems that strengthen daily operations, reduce risk, and improve overall business performance.
Certified organizations often see measurable gains in operational efficiency, customer retention, and access to new markets and contracts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about certification standards, timelines, and what to expect from the process.
Which certification does my business need?
The right standard depends on your industry and your customers’ requirements, or the direction desired by the company. ISO 9001 is the universal foundation for any organization that wants to demonstrate quality and consistency. AS9100 is required for aerospace and defense supply chains. ISO 13485 is the standard for medical device manufacturers and suppliers. SQF is the benchmark for food safety and retail supplier acceptance. If you are not sure where to start, EQS recommends beginning with a gap analysis to identify which standard best aligns with your goals and your customers’ expectations.
How long does certification take?
Most organizations achieve certification within 3 to 12 months, depending on the standard, the complexity of operations, and the maturity of existing quality systems. The process typically includes a gap analysis, system implementation, internal auditing, and the final certification audit conducted by an accredited registrar.
If I have ISO 9001, how hard is it to add AS9100 or ISO 13485?
Organizations with an established ISO 9001 system are already most of the way there. Both AS9100 and ISO 13485 are built on the ISO 9001 framework, so the process involves layering in industry-specific requirements (such as risk management for aerospace or design controls for medical devices) rather than building a new system from scratch.
Does my small business need a quality department to pass an audit?
No. EQS specializes in helping small and mid-sized businesses maintain compliance without adding headcount. The goal is to build a quality management system so practical that it becomes part of everyday operations rather than an additional burden on your team.
Not Sure Which Standard Fits?
Start with a conversation. We’ll help you understand certification requirements and build a clear plan for your organization.