API Spec Q1 - A Short History

​The American Petroleum Institute (API) developed and published the API Spec Q1 company level certification in their “Specification for Quality Management System Requirement for Manufacturing Organizations for the Petroleum and Natural Gas Industry.” The 9th edition of the document was published in 2013. It introduced 5 new sections with over 85 new sections. API Spec Q1 certification is an upgrade from the ISO 9001:2015 that focuses on the subject of risk. The specification extends to address issues of risk assessment and management, contingency planning, management of change, supply chain management, employee competency and training, and quality manual and corresponding documented procedures.

In June 2018, API released Q1, 9th Edition, Addendum 2.  Addendum 2 focused on supply chain controls, specifically on multi-tier suppliers.  It expanded the definitions to included associated (tier 2 & 3) level suppliers essential for product realization.

The long-awaited 10th edition update is currently being finalized, and is expected to be released in the coming months.  The new edition will contain some significant changes and will require companies to review their current programs for conformity.  Additionally, the new requirments  will impact existing API Product specifications as well.

Accupoint Software’s InterLink platform provides users with an innovate, web-based tool to manage all aspects of the new API Q1 requirements. With over 54 integrated modules, our InterLink framework delivers a well-structured and formalized method to minimize risks, improve operational efficiency and meet customer requirements for product quality. 
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For more information, or to schedule a platform demonstration of our Interlink API Q1 software, please contact us today.