Smithers Quality Assessments (SQA), based in Akron, Ohio, became the first certification body to be accredited by the ANSI-ASQ National Accreditation Board (ANAB) to certify professional snow and ice management companies to the SN 9001 Quality Management Systems standard.

“As snow removal contractors prepare for the winter season in North America, we are ready to offer certification to the SN 9001 standard,” said Gretchen Merriman, director of operations for SQA. “We look forward to providing both the internal and external benefits to a new and growing business sector. To achieve SN 9001, snow removal companies will demonstrate that they have a robust quality management system in place with consistent and verifiable processes and records.”

Kevin Gilbride, executive director of the Accredited Snow Contractors Association (ASCA) added: “ASCA adopted the first set of industry standards for the professional snow and ice management industry and built on them to develop SN 9001 with the goal of reducing risk. A management system and audit with SN 9001 provides companies in our industry with increased quality, safety, and service that may potentially reduce insurance rates.”

SN 9001 implements a pre-season inspection and in-event assessments to ensure conformity to the standard. Slip and fall accidents and an increase in litigation are of significant concern and risk for the snow removal industry. ASCA identified a need for a management system that would provide the framework for documenting operating processes and procedures. By implementing SN 9001, companies also will demonstrate their commitment to quality and safety by consistently delivering a service that exceeds customer expectations.