From 19th – 20th March, K2’s Houston office underwent the annual audit process for ISOs 9001 and 14001, which saw an external auditor assess K2’s Quality Management (ISO 9001) and Environmental Management (ISO 14001) Systems.
As well as reviewing policies and processes, the auditor spent time with different members of the team, conducting a series of interviews to gauge employees’ understanding of their role in maintaining successful management systems. K2 Houston passed the audit with flying colours, with no major or minor nonconformities, and no opportunities for improvement identified.
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO), sets standards that provide organisations with a framework to improve their management practices and processes, reduce risk, and achieve operational excellence, whilst also helping them to meet legal and regulatory requirements. ISOs are the global standards for trusted goods and services providers, and are a reassuring sign of credibility for consumers.
ISO 14001 is the International Standard for Environmental Management. Designed by the ISO and implemented by K2, ISO 14001 requires businesses to consider all environmental issues relevant to their operations, from waste management to resource use and efficiency.
ISO 9001 is the world’s most widely used Quality Management Standard. Being ISO 9001-certified is evidence that an organisation’s processes are effective and its employees well trained, enabling it to deliver services/products flawlessly and consistently.
With K2’s Paris office achieving ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certification in Q4 of 2024, K2 is now certified globally for both these standards, in line with targets set by the Board as part of K2’s Kinetic business strategy. Rather than taking a ‘one and done’ approach to assessments, annual audits ensure that businesses continue to remain compliant as both they and certification requirements evolve.
On the result of this most recent audit in Houston, K2’s Global Head of Compliance and ESG, Linda Rafferty, comments:
“The auditor had nothing but positive feedback to share, describing K2 as a business that practices what it preaches; not simply meeting standards for the sake of the audit, but embedding quality and environmental responsibility into our everyday operations. He praised the excellence of our team, highlighting how motivated, engaged, and dedicated our employees are – qualities that are not always present in the businesses he audits.”
Linda continues:
“Additionally, the auditor commented that he was particularly impressed with our Quality Management (QM) programme, specifically how we share, track and resolve escalations, as well as remarking on the systematic, well-organised nature of our processes. Furthermore, he stated that our commitment to sustainability stood out, particularly our plastic reduction programme and our supply chain management. Finally, he commended our transparent approach and recognised how we go beyond industry norms to measure, manage and reduce environmental impacts.”
In closing, Linda adds:
“This result reflects our hard work, dedication, and commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality and environmental responsibility. Every team member plays a vital role in ensuring we deliver on our promises, and this audit is a clear validation of the integrity and excellence of our approach.”
For more information about K2’s global ESG and sustainability goals, take a look at our most recent Sustainability Report..