"ISO 9001 and 9004: A Framework for Disaster Preparedness"

Title: "ISO 9001 and 9004: A Framework for Disaster Preparedness" Author: James W. Kolka Source: Quality Progress, February 2002 Location: QICID: 15345

Description: The terrorist attacks of September 11 forced many to examine their personal and professional preparedness for catastrophe. Those

businesses that were able to pull their employees, equipment, and data together after the tragedies had highly sophisticated, well-designed contingency plans in place and functioning. ISO 9001:2000 and ISO 9004:2000 are analytical tools useful in determining what issues to address in designing a disaster plan. The type and size of organization will affect the plan. The objective is to develop a plan that considers all exposures and contingencies. ISO 9001:2000 and ISO 9004:2000 can provide a platform for strategic planning and design of an individualized disaster plan. To be successful, the planning process and resulting plan must involve senior management and must include all aspects of the business. In addition to plans for both immediate and long-term responses, computer backup operations and all crucial business records and documents should be stored off-site.