Lacks enterprises claims a first in ISO registrations.

Tier One automotive molder Lacks Enterprises in Grand Rapids, Mich., claims to be the first U.S. manufacturer to obtain the full range of quality, environmental, health/safety, and laboratory management certification from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) based in Geneva, Switzerland. Lacks was recently certified for the ISO 14001 environmentalmanagement standard and the OHSAS 18001 occupational health and safety management standard. Lacks had previously obtained certification for the ISO 9000 quality management standard and ISO/IEC 17025 la laboratory accreditation. These certifications apply to all the firm's 15 plants, which perform injection molding, painting, plating, and assembly of exterior trim such as wheel covers.

"We believe qualification in these standards is a key to doing business in today's global markets. They give us a competitive edge," said Douglas Evans, senior v.p. and general manager for Lacks Trim Systems and Plastic Plate, Inc. "These standards help ensure that we're providing a healthy and safe workplace for our employees, that we're doing what is right for the environment, and that we are producing the highest quality products for our customers."

Incidentally, Lacks recently opened its 25,000-sq-ft research and testing laboratory to other manufacturers for contract testing. The lab can evaluate plastic and rubber raw materials and finished parts, as well as paints, plating, and adhesives. "We offer independent component suppliers access to a state-of-the-art lab that meets ISO standards at a very competitive cost," said Thomas R. Kline, director of quality programs. Tel: [phone], www.lacksenterprises.com