Quality Systems and Accreditation

Accreditation Process for Distributors

• Distributors must contact authorized accreditation organizations to obtain accreditation.
• A self-evaluation of the quality system should be conducted and documented prior to the audit arrangement.
• Expenses related to the accreditation process are the responsibility of the distributor.

Database Listing

• Accreditation becomes effective upon the distributor's listing in the Voluntary Industry Distributor Accreditation Program database managed by the Aviation Suppliers Association (ASA).
• The database is accessible at the ASA's official website.

Steps for Database Entry

• A certification letter confirming a passed audit must be sent to the database manager.
• The certification letter can be submitted via mail, carriers, email, or other electronic means.
• Include a signed certification letter or certificate from the accreditation organization with the submission.
• Retain a copy of the certification letter until the next accreditation.

Audit Requirements

• Accreditation organizations must audit distributors to ensure compliance with quality system standards and AC requirements.
• The audit includes both a review of the quality manual and an on-site inspection of the distributor's facility.

Monitoring Quality Systems

• Accreditation organizations are required to periodically monitor the effectiveness of the distributor's quality system.

Auditor Qualifications

• Auditors must possess qualifications such as ISO 9001 certification or CASE 3A training.
• Relevant experience includes quality auditing for air carriers or prior work as FAA aviation safety inspectors.

Effective Segregation Procedures

• Procedures must effectively segregate suspect materials to prevent inadvertent sale or transfer prior to proper identification.
• Additional processes include control over measuring/test equipment, shelf-life management, and maintaining current technical data accessible to the distributor.

Inspection and Documentation Control

• Processes should be in place for controlling inspection stamps, including issuance and accountability.
• Ensure adequate packaging and preservation controls to protect shipped parts, considering environmental requirements.
• Develop a system to manage documentation effectiveness related to parts, including original and shipping documents.

Accountability Systems

• Establish accountability procedures for duplicate approval tags and traceability documentation.
• Maintain lot, batch, and inventory controls to verify the condition and origin of parts during documentation processes.