QUALITY SYSTEM

TCN applies the ISO 9001:2008 Quality System. TCN is certified by Det Norske Veritas.

Quality assurance, (QA) applied at TCN, refers to a process for the systematic monitoring and evaluation of the various aspects of a project, solution or service, to ensure that standards of quality are being met. QA includes regulation of the quality of materials, assemblies, devices, products and components; services related to systems; and management, installation, integration and inspection processes.

Two key principles characterize TCN’s QA:

fit for purpose, the product should be suitable for the intended purpose
right first time, mistakes should be eliminated.

It is important to realize also that quality is determined by the intended users, clients or customers, not by society in general: it is not the same as ‘expensive’ or ‘high quality’. Even goods with low prices can be considered quality items if they meet a market need.

Quality control (QC) applied at TCN is a process for the review the quality of all factors involved in projects implementation.

Quality assurance and quality control are applied simultaneously in the TCN Quality System.

Quality control emphasizes testing of products and systems to uncover defects, and reporting to management, whereas quality assurance attempts to improve and stabilize system performance, and associated processes, to avoid, or at least minimize, issues that led to the defects in the first place.

To prevent mistakes from arising, several QA methodologies are used. However, QA does not eliminate the need for QC: some product parameters are so critical that testing is still essential. QC activities are treated as one of the overall QA processes.

Total quality management

The major characteristics, considered by TCN during the search to improve systems, solutions and overall business performance are:

• Reliability
• Maintainability
• Safety
• Strength

The company-wide quality approach places an emphasis on four aspects :-

1. Elements such as controls, job management, adequate processes, performance and integrity criteria and identification of records
2. Competence such as knowledge, skills, experience, qualifications
3. Soft elements, such as personnel integrity, confidence, organizational culture, motivation, team spirit and quality relationships.
4. Infrastructure as it enhances or limits functionality

The quality of the outputs is at risk if any of these aspects is deficient in any way.

TCN uses consultants when introducing new quality practices and methods, particularly where the relevant skills and expertise are not available within the organization. In addition, when new initiatives and improvements are required to boost the current quality system, or perhaps improve upon current systems, the use of temporary consultants becomes a viable solution when allocating valuable resources.