The challenge
Towards the end of 2022, KSB SAS encountered more and more nuclear clients insisting on ISO 19443 certification. Under the influence of these mandatory customer demands, the company chose to implement ISO 19443 as a strategic move to place nuclear considerations at the core of its operations. This decision marked the beginning of a wide-scale internal transformation.
“At the end of 2022, driven by mandatory customer requirements, we decided to implement ISO 19443 and seek certification with LRQA to integrate nuclear safety into the core of our operations.”
Leslie Labrousse, IMSM and Nuclear Safety Officer, KSB SAS
One primary challenge involved cultivating a nuclear safety culture across the workforce -approximately 200 individuals were identified as “nuclear personnel” who needed specialised training. Another significant challenge was implementing a graded approach to tailor controls based on the criticality of each product or process. Furthermore, improving supply chain oversight loomed large, especially regarding counterfeit, fraudulent, or suspect items (CFSI). These three focal points demanded both structural changes and cultural shifts within KSB SAS’s broader business operations.
Why ISO 19443?
- Mandatory for contracts: Many nuclear clients started treating ISO 19443 as a prerequisite for awarding contracts.
- Enhanced risk management: Formalising nuclear safety protocols would minimise non-conformities and protect KSB SAS’s brand reputation.
- Growth opportunity: By aligning with ISO 19443, KSB SAS positioned itself to win future high-value contracts in a rapidly expanding nuclear sector.
The approach
In March 2023, KSB SAS appointed a dedicated IMS Project Manager to lead the ISO 19443 initiative. Crucial to the project’s success was the selection of LRQA, chosen for its specialised nuclear assurance expertise.
From the outset, KSB SAS secured top management support, ensuring sufficient time, budget, and cross-department resources. The next phase involved mapping out each of the ~200 employees’ roles and responsibilities tied to nuclear activities, enabling KSB SAS to develop role-based training that went beyond theory to include real-life case studies.
“We reworked our training on nuclear safety to explain the context, define the jobs, and use real-case-based session training. Today on our KSB sites, the nuclear scope represents 200 people who have been trained in nuclear safety.”
Ambre Meurat, (IMS Project Manager, KSB SAS)
A graded approach matrix was then introduced to differentiate between high criticality components such as specialised nuclear valves and less critical items like standard valves. This approach allowed KSB SAS to concentrate its most rigorous checks on genuinely risk-prone areas. Leveraging LRQA’s feedback, the company also tightened supply chain controls by integrating CFSI measures into audits and contractual requirements. Stage 1 and Stage 2 audits carried out by LRQA provided in-depth reviews of KSB SAS’s adherence to ISO 19443, pinpointing key focus areas and validating strong practices along the way.
The results and business benefits
In November 2024, KSB SAS successfully obtained ISO 19443 certification from LRQA leading to:
- A stronger safety Culture: Employees became far more aware of risks and proactive in reporting potential issues, leading to fewer near misses.
- Supply chain reliability: Through updated supplier audits and contractual clauses, the risk of non-conforming or counterfeit parts diminished significantly.
- Competitive advantage: ISO 19443 certification strengthened KSB SAS’s reputation and opened doors to high-value nuclear projects globally.
- Operational efficiency: With a graded approach, resources and checks now match the level of criticality, optimising quality and speed.
"The collaboration with LRQA as part of our ISO 19443 approach allowed us to build a robust system that complies with the requirements of the standard. The gap analysis was a real asset in the process to highlight our strengths and areas for improvement."
Leslie Labrousse, IMSM and Nuclear Safety Officer, KSB SAS
Looking ahead
In the years to come, KSB SAS plans to continuously refine its ISO 19443 framework, with regular internal audits and tailored training updates to keep pace with changing nuclear regulations. Close cooperation with LRQA will remain a centrepiece of this sustained effort, as periodic surveillance audits help maintain the integrity of the quality management system.
Staff development also remains at the forefront, ensuring that new hires and existing employees alike receive precise, role-relevant education about nuclear risks and best practices. As nuclear power continues to gain traction globally, KSB SAS will remain vigilant regarding supply chain developments - particularly around CFSI - and aims to share insights and improvements with its suppliers and partners.
"The graded approach transformation plan presents a real opportunity to stabilise the quality and delivery of the supply chain, thereby enhancing efficiency."
Leslie Labrousse, IMSM and Nuclear Safety Officer, KSB SAS
Key takeaways for other organisations
- Leadership is essential: Strong executive sponsorship sets the tone and ensures adequate resources for certification.
- Cultivate a safety culture: Encourage open dialogue and empower employees to speak up about risks and non-conformities.
- Use a graded approach: Focus intensive checks where they’re most needed, boosting efficiency and effectiveness.
- Engage your supply chain: Align audits, training, and contract terms to maintain consistency in quality and safety.
- View certification as ongoing: ISO 19443 is a continuous improvement journey, supported by regular monitoring and audits.
LRQA’s role
Throughout KSB SAS’s journey, LRQA served as the independent certification body for ISO 19443, providing expert insight at each critical step. By partnering with a respected authority in nuclear assurance, KSB SAS could benchmark its processes against internationally recognised standards, refine its practices where needed and validate its commitment to stringent nuclear requirements. The combination of LRQA’s deep expertise and KSB SAS’s focus on operational excellence culminated in the successful achievement of ISO 19443 certification, further elevating the company’s position in a demanding and ever-evolving market.
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