AS9100 Clause 7.1.4 – Environment for the Operation of Processes

AS9100 7.1.4 Environment for the Operation of Processes requires organizations to:

• Determine the environment needed for the operation of their processes.
• Provide and maintain that environment.
• Ensure that the environment is suitable for the intended purpose of the process.
• Control the environment to ensure that process outputs meet requirements.

The environment for the operation of processes includes the physical, organizational, and technical resources, as well as the conditions under which the process is carried out. The organization needs to consider all of these factors when determining the environment needed for its processes.

Some examples of factors that may need to be considered include:

• Physical environment: This includes factors such as temperature, humidity, lighting, and noise levels.
• Organizational environment: This includes factors such as the organization’s culture, policies, and procedures.
• Technical environment: This includes factors such as the organization’s IT infrastructure and equipment.

The organization should also consider the impact of the environment on its processes. For example, if the organization’s processes require a clean environment, it may need to take steps to control dust, dirt, and other contaminants.

The organization should document its procedures for determining, providing, and maintaining the environment for the operation of its processes. The organization should also monitor and review its procedures to ensure that they are effective.

Here are some additional tips for ensuring that the environment for the operation of processes is suitable for the intended purpose of the process:

• Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential environmental hazards that could impact the process.
• Implement controls to mitigate the risks identified in the risk assessment.
• Monitor and review the controls to ensure that they are effective.
• Train employees on the importance of maintaining a suitable environment for the operation of processes.

By following these tips, organizations can help to ensure that their processes are operating in a suitable environment and that their products and services meet customer requirements.