Promat UK, a manufacturer of fire, thermal and acoustic insulation, has become one of the first companies of its kind to successfully move up to the latest ‘2015’ editions of the globally recognised ISO 9001 quality management and ISO 14001 environmental management system standards.

This dual standard upgrade gives customers of Promat UK the assurance that products are manufactured to a consistently high standard in processes designed to minimise environmental impact and with excellent supply reliability. These ISO standards, which apply to all activities undertaken at Promat UK’s 66,000 sq. ft. main manufacturing centre and HQ at Heywood in Lancashire, are awarded to companies only when independent assessors are satisfied that their management, operations and all processes meet their strict criteria.

Achieving these new standards is another important differentiator for Promat UK as it works to raise standards and eliminate risk in the design and specification of fire, thermal and acoustic insulation. This applies across its entire product portfolio including its fire resistant glazing solutions, fire resistant textiles, and calcium silicate and microporous products used in heavy industry, as well as the bespoke insulation solutions manufactured in the Promat Workshop for numerous OEM applications. 

Ian Cowley, general manager at Promat UK, said: “We’re delighted to become one of the first manufacturers of fire, thermal and acoustic insulation to reach the 2015 ISO standards. The work that goes into achieving these standards is far-reaching and looks at every aspect of our business in detail to ensure we’re doing things in the best way possible.

“Tragic recent events have put the performance of products that are designed to save lives under the spotlight like never before. It is vitally important for specifiers, contractors and installers to eliminate risk, particularly with products like fire resistant glass, and here ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 help make a difference.

“These standards go hand-in-hand, giving our customers peace of mind knowing that independent experts have been through the way we manufacture and supply products with a fine-tooth comb. In combination with our specific product approvals, such as those provided by CERTIFIRE, this means we give our customers a ‘belt and braces’ assurance that our products are right for the application.”

A significant change in the 2015 ISO standards versus previous versions is the involvement of the senior management team in leading and developing systems. This ensures the management systems effectively support the overall business objectives, customer requirements and the competence and development of employees, focusing on managing risk by closely scrutinising and monitoring quality, environmental and health and safety performance.