FT: Sika Industry Marion, Ohio plant certified QS-9000

The plant received ISO 9002 certification in 1993. Sika Marion manufactures products for the construction, automotive and industrial markets. Products include epoxy adhesives, concrete admixtures, mortars, water based coatings and urethane sealants.

This certification verifies that Sika Marion's quality systems conform to the QS-9000 and ISO 9002 quality standards. The certification by an independent registrar that the plant's quality systems meet these standards assures customers greater consistency in product and process manufacturing.

"Our employees worked hard for this certification, " said Ron Gibson, Sika Marion Quality Engineer. "This will open the door for introduction of additional automotive products, as well as introducing a stricter discipline for maintaining quality."

Sika opened the Marion warehouse in 1990 and at the same location built a mortar manufacturing plant in 1991. In 1994 the epoxy manufacturing plant was established followed by a coatings manufacturing facility in 1998. Sika Marion has 61 employees.

To become QS-9000 certified, an organization must demonstrate continuous improvement, emphasizing defect prevention and the reduction of variation and waste. QS-9000 defines the fundamental quality system expectations of DaimlerChrysler, Ford, General Motors, Truck Manufacturers, and other subscribing companies. ISO 9002 is the equivalent international quality standard for all industries.