The IECQ is a global certification and verification system that covers a wide range of electrotechnical component products, assemblies, associated materials, and manufacturing processes including environmental services - IECQ circular economy
Electrotechnical industry
In the electrotechnical industry, the IECQ system serves as a pivotal asset, offering a range of advantages that greatly benefit manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers alike.
One of the key strengths of the IECQ system is its reliance on quality assessment specifications that align seamlessly with international standards, providing a solid foundation for industry excellence.
As a formidable supply chain management tool, the IECQ system is primarily about assurance and cost-effectiveness. Manufacturers in the electrotechnical industry can reap substantial benefits by opting for suppliers who hold IECQ process and/or product certifications. This strategic choice translates into a significant reduction in incoming inspection costs, allowing businesses to streamline their operations and allocate resources more efficiently.
Furthermore, the IECQ system is dedicated to fostering global harmonization within the certification process. A unified set of standard operating rules and procedures embraced by all IECQ certification bodies (CBs), ensures a consistent and reliable approach to certification.
All IECQ certificates issued by these CBs are conveniently accessible through the official IECQ website. This user-friendly platform empowers end users, manufacturers, and service providers to swiftly locate and verify certified suppliers, fostering transparency and trust throughout the industry.
By partnering with IECQ-certified suppliers, manufacturers and service providers operating in the electrotechnical industry can rest assured that their products meet stringent quality and environmental standards. This not only bolsters their credibility but also grants them a significant competitive advantage in today's dynamic marketplace. With IECQ, businesses can confidently showcase their commitment to quality, sustainability, and global best practices, making them stand out as industry leaders in an increasingly discerning consumer landscape.
Government and regulations
Governments are able to reduce trade barriers caused by different certification criteria of countries.
Countries can better meet their obligations as stated in the World Trade Organization’s Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (WTO TBT).
The IECQ services offer various benefits to governments and regulations in the context of promoting sustainable practices and circular economy goals.
Through the assessment process, IECQ provides transparency and accountability in the electronics supply chain. Governments can use these assessments to ensure that manufacturers comply with regulations related to hazardous substances, waste disposal, and other environmental concerns. This transparency helps in monitoring and enforcing regulatory compliance.
Regulatory
Use of IECQ certificates as evidence that regulations governing hazardous substances are met. Recognize organizations whose processes are covered by IECQ certification and so on.
Contractual
Companies and manufacturers use suppliers whose components, assemblies, and processes are covered by IECQ certification as part of their “Supply chain management” procurement programme when dealing with suppliers.
Voluntary
Companies offering components and processes use IECQ certification to promote their goods and services, e.g. market differentiation.
Consumers
Consumers are becoming more conscious of sustainability and environmental issues.
Several surveys have shown that in addition to modifying their lifestyle to make it more sustainable, they also tend to buy goods (including electronics) from brands that have environmentally sustainable and ethical practices and values.
How do consumers know that a brand is sustainable?
That a company is actively working on reducing its carbon emissions?
How can they be sure that the claims made by manufacturers are verified and reflect their true status regarding carbon footprint, circularity, and so forth?
How do consumers ensure that the products they purchase are free from restricted or hazardous substances?
The IECQ environmental services supporting the circular economy use the approved process scheme (process certification) for:
Environmentally conscious design (ecodesign)
Restricted/hazardous substances process management (HSPM)
Carbon footprint of product verification
These services provide independent auditing of suppliers and manufacturers that produce electronic goods ensuring compliance to international standards as well as technical specifications. The independent auditing is conducted by IECQ-approved certification bodies ensuring compliance with these standards and specifications.
IECQ certification and verification statements provide consumers with confidence in companies that prioritize environmentally sustainable and ethical practices in the production of their electronic goods.
International organizations
IEC Standards and Conformity Assessment Systems enable sustainable solutions that promote economic development and global trade.
International organizations, including the United Nations and the WTO, endorse IEC International Standards and Conformity Assessment Systems.
How to get involved in IEC
The IEC brings together over 170 countries, and close to 20 000 experts cooperate on the global IEC platform to ensure that products work everywhere safely with each other.