title = "Quality Management System Overview (ISO 9001)"

content = """
A Quality Management System (QMS) is the organizational framework of policies, procedures, processes, and records that ensures products consistently meet customer and regulatory requirements. At Ridgecrest Metalworks, the QMS is structured in compliance with ISO 9001, the internationally recognized standard for quality management.

The ISO 9001 standard is built on seven quality management principles: customer focus, leadership, engagement of people, process approach, improvement, evidence-based decision making, and relationship management. These principles guide how the organization is structured and how decisions are made at every level.

The QMS at Ridgecrest covers all processes from order receipt through design (where applicable), procurement, production, inspection, packaging, and dispatch. It also encompasses supporting processes including maintenance, calibration, training, and supplier management. The QMS is documented in:
- Quality Manual: Top-level document describing the scope, exclusions, and how requirements are met
- Procedures: Describe how key processes are carried out (e.g., nonconformance, calibration, internal audit)
- Work Instructions: Detailed step-by-step instructions for specific tasks on the shop floor
- Forms and records: Capture objective evidence that procedures have been followed

The Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle is embedded in the QMS. Every process has defined inputs, outputs, responsible persons, and performance measures. Process performance data (scrap rate, on-time delivery, customer returns) is collected and reviewed at regular management review meetings. When performance targets are not met, corrective action processes are triggered.

Internal audits are conducted on a scheduled basis by trained internal auditors to verify that the QMS is implemented and effective. Audit findings are categorized as nonconformances (failures to meet requirements) or observations (areas for improvement). All nonconformances from internal audits must be closed out with verified corrective actions.

External certification audits are conducted by an accredited third-party certification body. Ridgecrest undergoes an initial certification audit, followed by annual surveillance audits and a full recertification audit every three years. Maintaining ISO 9001 certification is a contractual requirement for several key customers.
"""

version = "0.0.1"
