Mainstream reaches pinnacle of ISO certification

Mainstream Canada, with its Canadian head office in Campbell River and the second large aquaculture company in BC, rounded out 2009 with a company-wide Christmas gift. 

It received certification in ISO 9001 Quality  Management System (QMS) and the OHSAS 18001 Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Management System Standards (OHSAS), making it the first Canadian aquaculture company to reach full certification in ISO 9001 QMS, ISO 14001 EMS and OHSAS 18001 for all its operations.

“This emphasis on continual improvement is consistent with internationally recognized ISO Standards such as the ISO 9000 Quality Management Standards, and ISO 14000 Environmental Management Standards certification that was obtained by Mainstream Canada in 2008 and 2009″, said Laurie Jensen, Environmental, Licences and Community Relations Manager.

The certification process started in 2008 with a full internal and external audit of all  company operations. Any operational gaps were identified, systems were developed, the operational manuals “Best Management Practices” (BMPs) and “Standard Operating Procedures” (SOPs) were updated and the resulting “Environmental Management System” (EMS) certification was obtained in fall 2008.

“Sustainability is a goal that relies on balancing environmental, social and economic impacts, with a long-term commitment for continual improvement,” added Jensen.

ISO (International Standards Organization) is a third party world wide certification standard. 

Mainstream operates in the Campbell River, Tofino and Broughton areas with three hatcheries, 24 sea sites and two processing plants, one of which is contracted.