Facility Change of Location - Planning Guide: How to "ISO" plan your move when changing facility location.
1. Management Review
Conduct a comprehensive management review after deciding to move or considering a move. This review should assess changes, risks, resource needs, and other critical factors for the relocation.
2. Communication
Inform both your customers and your registrar about your intention to move. Clear communication ensures transparency and maintains trust.
3. Resources
Evaluate the new facility to ensure it has adequate power, gas, water, networking cables, and other necessary utilities at points of use.
4. Workflow Planning
Plan the layout for the new facility, keeping Lean manufacturing principles in mind to optimize efficiency and productivity.
5. Document Control
Recall all Quality Management System (QMS) documents per the distribution list and reissue them at the new facility. Update the distribution list to reflect the new facility's distribution scheme.
6. Records Control
Plan the transport and storage of all records at the new facility. Ensure records are protected and update the records procedure and/or records table to reflect new locations.
7. Identification & Traceability
Develop a plan to maintain identification and traceability during the move, including Work-In-Progress (WIP).
8. Customer Property
Inventory customer property before and after the move, including materials, parts, and tooling. Ensure these items are protected during transport.
9. Tooling Control
Conduct recorded inspections and condition checks of both company and customer-owned property after it is stored at the new facility.
10. Preservation of Product
Ensure all materials are preserved during transport, including shelf-life products. Store these products to maintain a "first in, first out" system.
11. Validation of Production Equipment
Perform a first-piece inspection on every production machine to validate proper performance post-move.
12. First Article Inspection Report (FAIR)
For aerospace, complete a new First Article Inspection Report for the first production run of every part.
13. Calibrated Equipment
Package and transport calibrated equipment to maintain tolerance. Visually inspect all equipment upon unpacking and consider recalibration before use.
14. Post-Move Communication
Notify customers and your registrar once the move is complete. For aerospace, update your OASIS account to reflect the new facility location.
15. Internal Audit
Conduct an internal audit once the facility is operational to ensure the system is effectively in place.
16. Post-Move Management Review
Hold a management review after the internal audit to discuss the move and review audit results.
Additional Considerations:
Phased Relocation Timeline
Avoid shutting down all operations during the move by implementing a phased relocation timeline. This approach allows for incremental transitions, maintaining revenue streams while reallocating resources.
Facility Evaluation Criteria
When selecting a new facility, consider expansive production space, modern technology infrastructure, and convenient access for employees, vendors, and customers.
Employee Onboarding and Training
Plan for the onboarding and training of employees at the new location to ensure a smooth transition and maintain productivity.
Community Relations
Engage with the local community to build positive relationships and address any concerns related to the relocation.
By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure a smooth and efficient facility relocation, minimizing disruptions and maintaining operational continuity.
