Quality Insights Volume 1: Focusing on Energy Efficiency, GDPR and Effective Training

Travelers are increasingly looking for greener options when they travel. Sustainability is no longer a luxury for high-end hotels, it is necessity for all hospitality businesses looking to future-proof.

Competing successfully in today’s highly competitive global markets requires asset optimization. A key asset in any business is its workforce. Creating an optimized workforce requires a commitment to continuous employee development, but how can you be sure your training program is benefiting both the employee and your business?

Pressures are increasing on the global automotive industry. Described in one analysis as “lost in translation between evolutionary, revolutionary and disruptive key trends that all need to be managed at the same time,” the current challenges facing the automotive sector stem from a combination of fall-out from the 2008 financial crisis, oil price volatility, war and terrorism, and insecure geopolitical environments. [1] These factors are having a decisive impact on the future direction of the automotive industry, requiring manufacturers to ensure their supply chains are optimized.

The European Union (EU) published its new European medical devices regulation and in vitro medical devices regulations – MDR (EU) 2017/745 and IVDR (EU) 2017/746 – in May 2017. In the intervening months, it has become clear the adoption of these new regulations presents a considerable challenge to both manufacturers and Notified Bodies (NB).

The Wall Street Journal has reported that one year after GDPR was implemented across the European Union (EU), officials are finally about to announce enforcement actions that could result in large fines. Until now the extent of monetary penalties issued has been relatively small. Authorities in Ireland and the United Kingdom, however, say this time was used to build the necessary cases against companies that contravene the new data protection rules.

Chemical Manufacturers are Facing an Array of Operational and Business Challenges

Around the globe, the concerns of consumers and governments are putting pressure on the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Good Distribution Practices (GDP) of pharmaceutical manufacturers, as they try to comply with international guidelines, standards and regulations. This pressure affects all operators in the pharmaceutical supply chain, including those involved in the manufacture of pharmaceutical excipients.

Climate change affects every country and impacts public health, food and water security, and migration, as well as peace and security, disrupting economies and affecting lives. We explore ISO 50001 and its evolution.