Quality knows no boundaries. Plastic products—and pipe systems in particular—are manufactured and used worldwide today. To ensure that manufacturers, certifiers, and users alike can trust in the safety and reliability of these products, independent monitoring of production processes is a crucial component of modern quality assurance.

The SKZ supports numerous internationally active certification organizations by conducting independent product monitoring at production sites worldwide. As an accredited inspection body in accordance with DIN EN ISO/IEC 17020, SKZ experts conduct regular audits and monitoring activities directly on-site at manufacturers’ facilities. This involves verifying that production processes, in-house quality controls, and products consistently meet the defined requirements.

“Our task is to work with our partners to ensure that certified products continue to meet the promised specifications over the long term. Through regular surveillance directly at production sites, we foster transparency and trust—regardless of whether production takes place in Europe, Asia, or other regions of the world,” explains Christian Winkler, Group Leader for Pipe Systems at SKZ.

Strong Partnerships with International Certification Bodies

In the field of plastic pipe systems, the SKZ has been collaborating with renowned certification organizations for many years. Its global monitoring activities are conducted, among others, on behalf of certification bodies from various European countries and cover applications such as drinking water, wastewater, gas, and heating pipe systems, as well as fittings.

SKZ’s experienced auditors possess extensive expertise in materials, production processes, testing requirements, and international regulations. In addition to evaluating production processes, the focus is particularly on continuous quality assurance, test plans, documentation, and the implementation of specific product requirements.

Q+ Swiss Quality: Swiss Quality Requirements as a Special Benchmark

One example of the special requirements of international markets is the collaboration with Q+ Swiss Quality. This Swiss quality organization aims to ensure the quality of products and systems in the fields of drainage and building services engineering beyond the requirements of international standards. Q+ is based on European and international standards but supplements them with specific Swiss requirements derived from national regulations, legal provisions, and Swiss installation, operation, and maintenance practices.

For manufacturers, Q+ certification therefore signifies not only compliance with general European standards but also proof of product quality specifically tailored to the Swiss market. Monitoring of production facilities by an independent body ensures that these requirements are consistently met.

“The Swiss market has traditionally been synonymous with the highest quality standards. With Q+, we aim to give manufacturers and users the assurance that products are not only developed and manufactured in accordance with standards but also in line with the specific requirements of Swiss practice. Independent monitoring by experienced partners such as SKZ is a key component in building trust and ensuring quality,” says Anne-Marie Hänggi of Q+ Swiss Quality.

Quality Assurance Across National Borders

The requirements for plastic products are constantly increasing. Sustainability, long-lasting product properties, and safe use over decades are becoming increasingly important. Consistent third-party monitoring of production facilities is therefore a key component of modern certification systems.

With its international experience, comprehensive plastics expertise, and independent position, the SKZ supports certifiers and manufacturers in making quality visible and traceable worldwide.