As HRI passed its ISO 9001 Stage 1 Audit in December 2024, we reflected on our quality assurance journey. Like every success story worth sharing, it began with a clear objective, strong commitment from company leadership, and internal champions to push it over the finish line.
HRI’s objective was (and is) to operate at the top of industry standards—at a minimum, to hold ourselves accountable to the same level of quality that many of our clients achieved in their facilities.
Why Take the Hard Road to Certification?
HRI leadership saw getting third-party certification of our Quality Management System (QMS) as a logical next step and became fully committed to the initiative. But why ISO 9001? First, it’s a highly respected, rigorous standard. Second, the ISO 9001 certification requirements dovetailed perfectly with our company philosophy and the QMS already in place at Hansen-Rice. And last, but not least, many of our clients who have already benefited from our QMS also have a general understanding of what ISO certification is. They easily see how the two fit together and connect with the value our ISO certification brings to them as their building program partner.
Within HRI’s QMS, HRI has a comprehensive toolkit of documented processes for planning, developing, and safely executing CAPEX and OPEX projects. To bolster the validity of our approach, HRI’s teams of subject matter experts validated our tools and processes by leveraging their knowledge, experience, and collective certifications and affiliations, such as AISC, AIC, American Society of Safety Professionals, AIA, ISN, National Safety Council, FDA, Global Cold Chain Alliance, FPSA, and IIAR. Following this system of checks and balances ensures a high degree of QMS reliability and compliance.
Based on years of best practices and the proven QMS tools developed, HRI moved methodically through the exhaustive preparation and completion of the ISO Stage 1 Audit. We examined where we had been, where we were, and what was ahead. The audit, combined with our customer success stories, revealed significant client benefits and confirmed that ISO certification is not only good for us but is also vital for our clients.
So, what is ISO and why is it good for owners or operators who are about to take on a CAPEX or OPEX project?
ISO 9001 – The “Best Way of Doing Things”
As defined by the organization, ISO is the “International Organization for Standardization.” It is an “Independent and non-governmental” body that “brings global experts together to agree on the best way of doing things.” Its mission is to “make life easier, safer and better—for everyone, everywhere.”
ISO 9001 establishes a framework for organizations to build efficient quality management systems. The core principles—such as customer focus, leadership, and evidence-based decision-making—are integral to ensuring high standards across all operations. For contractors, this means embedding quality into every aspect of a project, from design and planning to execution and delivery.
Rarified Air: <1%
Achieving and maintaining certification is not easy. It signifies rigorous and verifiable quality management systems and a continuous commitment to delivering consistent, high-quality services that meet customer and regulatory requirements. It’s estimated that less than one percent of construction firms achieve ISO-9001:2015 certification (from 2023 ISO Survey Data).
Why ISO 9001 is Relevant for High-Performing Design-Build General Contractors
In a field where seamless integration of design and construction is critical, ISO 9001 provides a structured approach to achieving consistency and excellence. It ensures that every stage of the project lifecycle aligns with the client’s goals, fostering trust and credibility. By adhering to ISO 9001, contractors can demonstrate their dedication to quality, giving clients insight, control, consistency, and accountability. Ultimately it provides protection for reliable and predictable project outcomes.
Certification: Just the Beginning
ISO 9001 is not a one-time achievement; it requires ongoing commitment. Regular internal audits, employee training, and updates to the QMS ensure continuous improvement and compliance. This vigilance ensures long-term benefits for both the company and its clients.
Client Benefits
CONSISTENCY: ISO 9001-certified contractors ensure a consistent level of quality throughout the project lifecycle. Customers benefit from reduced defects, on-time delivery, and projects that meet or exceed expectations, ultimately saving time and money.
CONTROL: Certification demonstrates a contractor’s dedication to quality and reliability, fostering trust and long-term relationships. Customers can rest assured knowing that their project is in the hands of a team committed to excellence.
INSIGHT: ISO 9001 promotes transparency and standardized processes, which enhance communication among stakeholders. For customers, this means clearer expectations, timely updates, and fewer misunderstandings during the project.
PROTECTION: Proactive risk management is a hallmark of ISO 9001-certified organizations. Contractors identify and address potential issues before they escalate, ensuring that projects remain on track and within budget.
COMPLIANCE: For customers, hiring an ISO 9001-certified contractor means gaining a partner that adheres to globally recognized standards. This adds value to the project and can even help clients meet their own compliance requirements, particularly in regulated industries.
Conclusion
ISO 9001 certification is more than a badge of honor—it’s a practical tool for driving excellence in the design-build sector.
As you select your project partner, ask about their quality management systems that protect your interests and deliver measurable benefits to your CAPEX project.
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