EPO achieves ISO 9001 certification for its patent granting process
The EPO has achieved ISO 9001 certification for its quality management system, which covers the search, examination, opposition, limitation and revocation stages of its patent granting process.
The certificate was presented to EPO President Benoît Battistelli by Mr Blechschmidt, managing director of the German Society for the Certification of Quality Assurance Systems (Deutsche Gesellschaft zur Zertifizierung von Managementsystemen).
“This is the culmination of a long process and is further evidence of our long-standing commitment to the quality of the European patent system,” said Mr Battistelli. “I am particularly pleased to receive this certificate on behalf of the entire EPO staff, as it demonstrates our dedication to continual improvement, for the benefit of patent applicants and the greater public,” he added. “Quality is a top strategic priority for the EPO, and this process is helping us to strengthen our leadership in this area.”
ISO 9001 certification is an internationally recognised standard for quality management systems. The process of certification requires senior management engagement, solid processes and monitoring as well as staff commitment.
Source: EPO