Get Kitemarked

The BSI has announced the format and fees associated with the Thatcham BSI Kitemark scheme for body shops, which will go live from January 2007. The completion of the 15 bodyshop pilot programme has "enabled BSI to closely gauge the resources involved in a thorough audit, adding real value to the business, whilst avoiding unnecessary disruption to day-to-day operations", according to director of quality and business systems at Thatcham, Jason Moseley. A full Thatcham BSI Kitemark will involve two days of initial assessment, plus a further surveillance visit within the first 12 months, a total investment for quality within the first year of £2,450, including full Kitemark licence fee. For subsequent years, the annual fee will be £2,500 which covers two detailed and unannounced surveillance visits and the continuing use of the Kitemark. To aid bodyshops with their financial planning BSI also offer a direct debit payment plan. Alastair Trivett, Global Managing Director, at BSI Product Services, comments, “Since BSI entered the world of crash repair, we have quickly realised what sophisticated and safety critical activities are carried out by UK bodyshops in an area where even the most basic of cars are manufactured using highly advanced techniques. We are dedicated to bringing a quality mark that is recognised by 82% of the UK adult population and is synonymous with safety and quality – The Kitemark- to an industry which is vital to the safety of all road users.” Bodyshops who wish to be audited to PAS 125 and become Kitemark accredited should contact either Thatcham on 01635 294 826 or BSI on 01442 230 442.