Being an ISNetworld®-certified contractor or supplier certainly has many benefits. One of the main benefits for contractors is the opportunity to work with fantastic corporations. As of this writing, over 750 hiring clients require ISN certification. Among that long and growing list are Chevron Oil, Raytheon Technologies, Murphy Oil, and Kimberly-Clark® (to name a few). These companies need contractors and suppliers in every industry. More importantly, they typically need them fast!
For example, Kimberly Clark is often seeking suppliers to service their many US locations, like those in Tennessee. You may be wondering how your company can land on the shortlist. It’s more simplistic than you may be considering.
Who is Kimberly Clark?
There’s no real reason to focus on Kimberly-Clark® other than we at Cascade QMS have assisted many of their contractors and appreciate their commitment to safety. We’ve had contractors question who they are! Kimberly-Clark® Corporation is an American multinational company specializing in producing personal care and consumer tissue products. It was founded in 1872 and is headquartered in Irving, Texas. Kimberly-Clark® operates in more than 175 countries and has a wide range of well-known brands in its portfolio.
Some of the notable brands owned by Kimberly-Clark® include:
Kleenex®: A famous brand of facial tissues.
Huggies®: Known for its diapers and baby care products.
Cottonelle®: A brand of toilet paper and related products.
Scott®: Produces various paper products, including toilet paper and paper towels.
Depend®: Specializes in adult incontinence products.
Kimberly-Clark® Professional®: Provides products for workplace settings, including industrial wipes, safety products, and more.
Kimberly-Clark® has a significant presence in the global consumer goods market and is recognized for its commitment to innovation and sustainability in developing its products. The company serves various needs, including personal care, consumer tissue, and business professional products.
Which contractors do they hire?
Kimberly-Clark®, a global corporation specializing in personal care and consumer tissue products, may engage various contractors to support its operations. The specific types of contractors can vary based on the company’s needs, projects, and areas of operation. Here are some common types of contractors that might work with Kimberly-Clark®:
Construction Contractors: Involved in building or modifying manufacturing facilities, offices, or other structures.
Maintenance Contractors: Engaged in the upkeep and maintenance of equipment, facilities, and infrastructure.
Engineering Contractors: Provide specialized engineering services, design, and technical expertise.
Logistics and Transportation Contractors: Involved in product transportation, warehousing, and distribution.
Information Technology (IT) Contractors: Offer IT services, software development, and support for the company’s technological infrastructure.
Marketing and Advertising Contractors: Support marketing campaigns, advertising, and promotional activities.
Research and Development Contractors: Collaborate on innovation and product development initiatives.
Human Resources and Recruitment Contractors: Assist in recruitment, training, and other HR-related functions.
Environmental and Sustainability Contractors: Work on initiatives related to environmental compliance, sustainability, and corporate responsibility.
Cleaning and Janitorial Contractors: Provide cleaning and maintenance services for office spaces and manufacturing facilities.
It’s important to note that the specific contractors and their roles may evolve based on Kimberly-Clark®’s business strategies, industry trends, and project requirements. The company may also work with various suppliers and service providers to support its diverse operations. For the most accurate and current information, please contact Kimberly-Clark® directly or refer to their official communications and procurement processes.
Why does Kimberly-Clark® require ISNetworld® Certification?
Safety Compliance: ISNetworld® is often used to assess and monitor contractors’ safety performance and compliance with industry and regulatory safety standards. Ensuring contractors meet specific safety criteria is crucial for companies like Kimberly-Clark®, which prioritize a safe working environment.
Risk Management: ISNetworld® certification allows companies to assess the risk of contracting a particular service provider. This includes evaluating a contractor’s safety record, training programs, and other risk management practices.
Efficiency and Standardization: Companies can streamline the contractor prequalification process using a centralized platform like ISNetworld®. This can lead to more efficient onboarding procedures and standardized assessments, making managing many contractors easier for the company.
Industry Best Practices: ISNetworld® often incorporates industry best practices into its assessment criteria. Requiring certification may be a way for Kimberly-Clark® to ensure that their contractors adhere to recognized standards and practices within their industry.
Client Requirements: In some cases, clients or regulatory bodies may require companies to demonstrate that their contractors meet specific safety and compliance standards. Utilizing a third-party platform like ISNetworld® can fulfill these requirements.
These are general considerations, and the specific reasons why Kimberly-Clark® requires ISNetworld® certification for contractors would be best obtained directly from Kimberly-Clark® through their official channels or by contacting their procurement or safety departments. Companies may have specific safety and compliance objectives that drive their decision to use platforms like ISNetworld® for contractor management.
Additionally, requirements are likely to differ depending on each contractor’s risk level and territory.
Preparing for Kimberly-Clark® Considerations
Many factors exist when stepping up to the plate with large hiring clients such as Kimberly-Clark®. They value a strong commitment to safety with all of their service providers. It’s worth taking some time to evaluate your company’s policies and safe practices. When was the last time a safety audit was conducted on your business? If ever, do you have access to the findings? What procedures were put in place to mitigate any discovered risks? These questions may seem overwhelming, but they mimic those asked when setting up an ISNetworld® account. Step one is obtaining a firm understanding of your current safety culture.
Step two is ensuring you have the requirements. Of course, Safety Consultants, like Cascade QMS’ brilliant team, can be of great value to understanding where a business stands – what’s better? Safety Consultants can help businesses change their processes to land compliance certifications with big companies.
Safety consultants have the potential to play a crucial role in helping small businesses establish and maintain safe work environments. Their expertise in safety regulations, industry standards, and risk management can contribute significantly to the well-being of employees and the overall success of a business. Here are several ways safety consultants assist small businesses:
Regulatory Compliance:
Safety consultants are well-versed in local, state, and federal safety regulations. They help small businesses understand and comply with these regulations, reducing the risk of fines and legal issues.
Risk Assessment:
Consultants conduct thorough risk assessments to identify potential hazards in the workplace. This includes evaluating the physical environment, equipment, and work processes. Identifying and mitigating risks can prevent accidents and injuries.
Safety Training Programs:
Consultants design and implement safety training programs tailored to the business’s specific needs. This may include training employees on proper use of equipment, emergency procedures, and best practices to prevent accidents.
Emergency Preparedness:
Consultants help businesses develop and implement emergency response plans. This includes procedures for fires, natural disasters, and other emergencies. Preparedness training ensures that employees know how to respond in critical situations.
Incident Investigation:
Safety consultants assist in conducting thorough investigations in the event of accidents or incidents. They analyze the root causes and recommend corrective actions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Safety Policies and Procedures:
Consultants work with businesses to develop and update safety policies and procedures. Clear guidelines help employees understand their responsibilities and contribute to a safer work environment.
Ergonomics and Workplace Design:
Safety consultants assess ergonomic factors in the workplace, helping businesses design workspaces that minimize the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and other health issues.
Employee Engagement:
Consultants promote a safety culture within the organization by engaging employees in safety initiatives. This involves fostering a mindset where everyone feels responsible for creating and maintaining a safe workplace.
Health and Wellness Programs:
Beyond safety, consultants may advise on health and wellness initiatives. Promoting healthy lifestyles can contribute to overall employee well-being and reduce absenteeism.
Cost Reduction:
Safety consultants can help small businesses save money in the long run by preventing accidents, injuries, and fines associated with non-compliance.
Continuous Improvement:
Safety consultants assist in establishing systems for continuous improvement. Regular audits and assessments ensure that safety practices evolve to meet changing conditions and regulations.
Small businesses, in particular, may benefit from the specialized knowledge and guidance provided by safety consultants, allowing them to prioritize the well-being of their workforce while navigating the complexities of safety regulations and compliance. Cascade QMS’ Management Plan could be the ideal solution for you!
Landing the Contract
Once your safety culture is well established, it’s time to sign contracts. Promoting your company to Kimberly-Clark® or any large corporation requires a strategic and targeted approach. Here are some steps you can consider to promote your company effectively:
Research Kimberly-Clark®’s Needs and Values:
Understand Kimberly-Clark®’s business, values, and specific needs. Tailor your promotional efforts to align with their priorities and objectives.
Networking and Relationship Building:
Attend industry conferences, events, and networking opportunities where Kimberly-Clark® representatives might be present. Building relationships can open doors for collaboration.
Utilize Professional Networks:
Join business and professional networks to connect with individuals affiliated with Kimberly-Clark®. LinkedIn is a valuable platform for professional networking.
Online Presence:
Ensure your company has a professional and informative online presence. A well-designed website, active social media profiles, and relevant content can showcase your capabilities.
Case Studies and Success Stories:
Develop case studies or success stories highlighting your company’s achievements, especially those relevant to Kimberly-Clark®’s needs. Share these with potential contacts within the company.
Participate in Supplier Diversity Programs:
Many large corporations, including Kimberly-Clark®, have supplier diversity programs. Consider participating in these programs if your company qualifies as a diverse supplier.
Understand Procurement Processes:
Familiarize yourself with Kimberly-Clark®’s procurement processes. This may include understanding how they evaluate and select suppliers. You can often find this information on the company’s official procurement website.
Submit a Capability Statement:
Prepare a concise capability statement outlining your company’s strengths, capabilities, and how to meet Kimberly-Clark®’s needs. This document should be clear, professional, and tailored to their requirements.
Attend Supplier Events:
Some companies organize supplier events or information sessions. Attend these events to gain insights into Kimberly-Clark®’s expectations and to meet key decision-makers.
Engage with Procurement Contacts:
Reach out to Kimberly-Clark®’s procurement department or designated contacts. Introduce your company, express your interest in collaboration, and inquire about the steps for becoming a supplier.
Quality Certifications and Compliance:
Ensure that your company meets industry standards and has relevant quality certifications. Compliance with regulations and industry standards is often crucial in supplier selection.
Remember that persistence and professionalism are key when promoting your company to a large corporation. Building relationships, demonstrating value, and understanding the specific needs of your target company will enhance your chances of success.
Safety with Purpose
Is it simple? Shouldn’t safety always be with purpose? Be cautious not to be oversold. At Cascade QMS, we take the time to understand your unique business and help adapt policies best suited for your business and your employees. Safety should never have a one-size-fits-all approach. Spend a few moments with a Cascade QMS Safety Consultant to discuss your needs. A solution to your safety and compliance needs may be much simpler than anticipated! We have all the tools and expert guidance needed to support you as you approach Kimberly-Clark® and others!
