"This certification is proof of the high level of standards observed by the Emirates group across all aspects of security - from aviation and general security to valuable handling and cash processing services that are handled by its subsidiary Transguard" says His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, chairman and chief executive, Emirates airline and group.

"The certification is timely as we forge ahead with our plans to provide one-stop security services at our new Transguard / Emirates group security headquarters. Our processes and procedures are stringently monitored and there is zero tolerance for mistakes in the execution of our security functions. With the addition of our new facility, we contribute to Dubai's vision to become a premier trading and shipping centre for valuables and gold" says Dr. Abdulla Al Hashimi, divisional senior vice president, Emirates group security.

On its road to achieving ISO certification, Emirates group security had adopted the tools of total quality management (TQM) and quality control circle (QCC) as the basis of its drive. Rooted in the understanding that quality process is about people, group security employees also actively participated in the quality drive by contributing ideas and suggestions.

"To meet new challenges in the aviation industry, we embarked on the TQM and QCC programme in mid 2005. These concepts formed the core of our integrated approach to total quality. The ultimate aim is to make continuous improvement a way of life. ISO 9001 is just a result of this process that we have embraced" says Dr Al Hashimi.