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ISO 13485 quality objectives – what must you learn?

What are the ISO 13485 quality objectives? If this question is on your mind, then this blog is for you! The standard for quality management in the medical device industry asks the companies to follow the basics. The objectives are the fundamental aspects a company must acknowledge before implementing the standard. The quality objective set the ground for better management of the system for manufacturing and supply.

Decode the predominant objectives before modifying your present system.

What are the ISO 13485 quality objectives?

1.Alignment with Quality PolicyEnsure that quality objectives are consistent with the organisation’s quality policy. Objectives should reflect the commitment to meeting customer and regulatory requirements and the aim of enhancing customer satisfaction.

2.Build SMART Criteria

• Specific: Clearly define what is to be achieved.

• Measurable: Quantify the objective to track progress.

• Achievable: Set realistic and attainable goals.

• Relevant: Ensure objectives are pertinent to the organisation’s mission and QMS.

• Time-bound: Set a timeframe for achieving the objectives.

3.Regulatory and Customer Focus: Consider regulatory requirements and customer needs when setting quality objectives. The management must ensure that the objectives should aim for compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and standards.

4.Risk Management: The standard asks to integrate risk management into quality objectives to address potential risks associated with medical devices. Both the management and the workers must focus on objectives that help mitigate risks and enhance product safety and effectiveness.

5.Continuous Improvement: Companies must select objectives that drive continuous improvement of processes, products, and the QMS. The management must use them to identify opportunities for enhancing efficiency, reducing waste, and improving overall quality.

6.Examples of Quality Objectives

•Product Quality: Reduce the rate of defective products by a certain percentage within a specified timeframe.

•Customer Satisfaction: Improve customer satisfaction scores by a certain percentage through better product quality and customer service.

•Process Efficiency: Decrease production cycle time or increase production yield by a certain percentage.

•Regulatory Compliance: Achieve zero non-conformities in regulatory audits over the next year.

•Training and Competence: Ensure 100% of relevant staff complete required training on the QMS and regulatory requirements within six months.

7.Monitoring and Measurement: There should be established methods for monitoring and measuring the progress of quality objectives. The authority must use the key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and performance against objectives.

8.Review and Update: Monitoring and review are essential. Hence, the upper management should regularly review quality objectives during management review meetings. Also, they must update objectives as necessary based on performance data, changes in regulatory requirements, and business needs.

9.Communication and Engagement: Communicate quality objectives throughout the organisation to ensure awareness and engagement. Involve all relevant personnel in achieving the objectives to foster a culture of quality.

10.Documentation and Records: Document quality objectives and maintain records of progress and performance. Ensure documentation is controlled and accessible to relevant personnel.

What must you learn?

First understand the structure and requirements of ISO 13485, particularly how quality objectives fit into the overall QMS. Next is developing competence. For that, the stakeholders must gain knowledge on how to set, implement, and monitor quality objectives effectively. The third is to incorporate risk-based thinking. For that understand the significance of integrating risk management into quality objectives. Further, data-driven thinking helps to augment the process of achieving the objectives. Thus, learn the way to use data and metrics for setting realistic and achievable quality objectives. Finally, foster a culture of continuous improvement within the organisation.

The benefits of getting the ISO 13485 standard

Regulatory Compliance: ISO 13485 is recognised and accepted by regulatory authorities around the world, including the FDA in the United States, the European Union, and other major markets. Certification can simplify the approval process for medical devices in multiple markets, facilitating quicker access to international markets.

Enhanced Product Quality and Safety: The standard ensures that companies maintain consistent product quality and safety, reducing the risk of product recalls and liability issues. It emphasises risk management and mitigation, enhancing the overall safety and reliability of medical devices.

Improved Customer Satisfaction: Certification demonstrates a commitment to quality and regulatory compliance, which can increase customer trust and satisfaction. It enhances the company’s reputation in the market as a reliable and high-quality medical device manufacturer.

Operational Efficiency: ISO 13485 promotes the establishment of efficient and effective processes, leading to better resource management and reduced waste. The standard encourages a culture of continuous improvement, helping organisations to regularly refine their processes and products.

Market Competitiveness: Certification can provide a significant competitive advantage, particularly in tenders and contracts where ISO 13485 compliance is a prerequisite. It can open up new market opportunities and partnerships with other certified organisations.

Employee Engagement and Training: The standard helps define clear roles and responsibilities, improving overall organisational structure and employee performance. It emphasises the importance of training and competency, ensuring that employees are well-equipped to maintain high-quality standards.

Supplier and Partner Confidence: The certification reassures suppliers and partners of the organisation’s commitment to quality and regulatory compliance, fostering stronger and more reliable relationships. Also, it helps in detecting, evaluating, and reducing the risks associated with suppliers and subcontractors. This way, the entire program encourages the suppliers and stakeholders to become more proactive. Their confidence level visibly enhanced.

Documentation and Traceability: ISO 13485 requires comprehensive documentation and record-keeping, improving traceability and accountability throughout the product lifecycle. Better documentation facilitates quicker identification and resolution of issues, minimising disruptions.

Regulatory Updates: The standard helps organisations stay current with evolving regulatory requirements and industry best practices, ensuring ongoing compliance.

Customer and Patient Safety: The primary focus on safety helps ensure that medical devices are safe for use, ultimately protecting patient health and well-being.

 

Final words

To find the best professional support for attaining the ISO 13485 quality objectives and the internal audit requirements, contact us at ComplianceHelp. We are the premium site for achieving any ISO certification in Australia. Our bespoke solutions for ISO and other global certifications are ready to make the seemingly exhausting accreditation process, comfortable and time-bound. From basic consultation to audit and analysis, we will cover everything. Get help to clear your concepts regarding the clauses of any management system standard you require. Click here to learn more about the service charges.

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