GREENVILLE, S.C. (Feb. 22, 2013) — Michelin North America Inc. is partnering with Tech International to launch the Michelin Earthmover Repair Accreditation Program, covering training, technical support, inventory control, quality products/procedures and traceability.
The new certification/audit program—to be launched this year covering North America—will help verify that dealers are providing long-lasting and consistent tire repairs in all locations, Michelin said.
An accredited repair shop will go through a series of these audits by the two firms to ensure they meet the criteria for repair capability and quality controls.
"We have found that there is a need in the industry for consistent, quality repairs and we want to make it easier for end users to find them," said Michael Reich, Michelin's Earthmover Services category manager.
"The…program will ensure that earthmover tires are repaired to the industry's highest standards, leveraging the Michelin and Tech International relationship," he said. "Tech International will provide its industry-leading repair products and procedures, and Michelin will monitor and track repairs for the benefit of the end user."
In addition to providing initial training, Tech International will provide biannual training on repair methods, product inventory procedures and quality and traceability systems, Michelin said.
Each shop is certified on repair capability, Tech International-trained staffing requirements, repair methods and inventory procedures, quality and traceability systems, according to a Michelin spokeswoman. If a dealer has multiple shops, each must be certified to be in the program, she added, noting accreditation will last one year with an annual audit and recertification necessary to stay in the program.
Individuals must attend a four-day initial training program with Tech International. During the annual audits, additional training will be available as needed. Follow-up training will be required every two years, the Michelin spokeswoman said.
The earthmover tire training program offered by the Tire Industry Association (TIA) is a mounting/dismounting task, Michelin said, whereas the Michelin repair accreditation program is part of a portfolio of services offered through dealers targeting quality, traceability and consistency. The end goal, the company said, is to help the end user to be safer.