What do we actually mean?
The importance of Traceability – Its all about providing “confidence” and “integrity” within the supply chain. Everything to support the product specification and of course user (consumer) confidence and ultimately "brand image":
From raw materials, such as – metals, alloys, carbon fiber, wood, packaging, food, etc. through to all matters of calibration – measurement integrity, standard reference materials for chemical analysis, legal metrology for trade, etc.
That Paper Trail – We traditionally underscore our confidence with “a paper chase” (or pdf's) from the supplier of materials or components, for example:
However, remember…. just because you have the “paper trail” with a link to the “item” supplied, it does not mean that the material or product is correct or compliant.
No.... ISO 9001 and AS 9100 only require the management of "traceability" and not material or product compliance... for that, we must delve deeper!
Your customers are aware of the failures within the "supply chain" and that is why customer contracts state "supplying materials and components with certification from a quality assured and approved supplier - does not absolve you the supplier from the responsibility of ensuring material compliance".
This "podcast" will provide the necessary guidance for your consideration about how you manage your supply chain integrity - risk and mitigation.