Quality mark for simulation experts is just the ticket

A Devon company that creates ‘virtual’ simulation packages for land, sea and air training is celebrating after achieving an internationally recognised quality mark.

Selective Fidelity Simulation has been awarded the ISO 9001:2008 by QAS International (Quality Management Systems) for its design, manufacture and installation of equipment for synthetic training.

The company, based in Ford Road, Totnes, employs just two members of staff but has a client-list stretching from the RAF, Navy and Army to civilian companies operating ‘virtual jets’ to help people overcome their phobia of flying.

Stirling Paatz, managing director of SFS, said its products helped military and civilian organisations train personnel in a safe environment.

He said: “We manufacture and design hardware for synthetic training. Most of our work tends to be military, but we have recently branched out into civilian work.

“It is a great way to train people to do hazardous tasks without putting them at risk. We are providing realistic equipment for them to train with where it feels like the real stuff but is completely safe. They can complete manoeuvres that would be unthinkable in real life.

“Our object is to make this equipment affordable and widely accessible. We work with the client to develop the product, which is cost-effective, industrial-grade simulation.”

It took the company just over a year to obtain certification, which was assisted by Roger Preston area manager of ISO management specialists IMSM.

ISO 9001: 2008 is the international standard for QMS and is used by more than one million organisations worldwide.

SFS will undergo continuous checks to ensure it adheres to the standards and delivers continued improvement and business performance.

Mr Paatz added: “It means that when we are bidding for contracts, there is no debate about our ability to deliver quality. It gives us credibility with our customers and gives us the tool or benchmark to maintain quality. It’s a great achievement and we are very proud to have met the standards set.”