Certified Steel Standard going from strength to strength

CSS (Certified Steel Standard) the SIMI’s new bodyshop standards programme , the first such Irish National standard, was officially announced to the Industry in late 2012. The voluntary standard incorporates Industry developed technical specification for the process of vehicle body repair.

To obtain the CSS standard a bodyshop must pass an independent audit which examines the detailed CSS minimum requirements for competent personnel, appropriate and well-maintained equipment, suitable repair methods and quality of repair materials. The standard embraces all of the aspects of the structural repair process management with an emphasis on continual improvement
CSS is independently audited (by NMU Auditing & Inspection Services) and accredited byTÜV SÜD Auto Service GmbH, which clearly demonstrate to Customers and to Insurance Companies that bodyshops are committed to the highest quality and safety standards.

Over the last year boyshops around the country have been undergoing preparations to achieve the CSS standard. Our first announcement in 2013 resulted in eight bodyshops achieving the voluntary CSS standard, since then the standard has gone from strength to strength with the number of bodyshops obtaining CSS certification swelling to over 30 nationwide.

Alan Nolan Director General SIMI “The commitment of those bodyshops who have applied to achieve the standard demonstrates their dedication to professionalism and standards of repair within the Industry”.

The CSS standard will shortly be launched to the public, who can look to CSS as a symbol of reassurance that any structural repairs carried out on a vehicle or accident damaged vehicles have been repaired to the highest standard.

If you are interested in applying for CSS or learning more about the standard please contact Teresa Noone tel 01/6761690 or email tnoone@simi.ie