The applicability of the quality assurance requirements of the ISO 9000 conformance standards in construction

ISO 9000 compliance is rapidly becoming a prerequisite for construction companies seeking contracts and a competitive position in the construction market. The ISO 9000 conformance standards (ISO 9001, 9002 and 9003) are being used by construction companies seeking ISO 9000 certification. Nearly 35% of the largest construction companies in Portugal are using ISO 9000-based quality systems for 100% of their projects. A fundamental requirement of ISO 9000 quality management/quality assurance standards is that a documented quality system must be present. Each of the ISO 9000 conformance standards requires the consideration of a number of requirements that form the contents of the standard. The most comprehensive model, ISO 9001 requires the consideration of twenty requirements. This paper examines the applicability of the twenty requirements in construction by investigating the use of ISO 9000 by largest companies in Portugal's construction industry. In addition, it addresses how each requirement is implemented in the ISO 9000-based quality systems for construction organisations and projects.