As part of the TQM audit, a group of experts intends to evaluate the Severstal’s TQM. With that purpose they will be having meetings with various level managers of Severstal for over 1.5 weeks.

Over this time they will conduct a technical audit in three company units - the converter shop, the sheet rolling plant #2 and the cold rolling shop. These three units comprise a technological chain for manufacturing of substrate for the future galvanizing line with an annual capacity of 400,000 tonnes. In the course of audit organization of manufacturing process, its level of automation, the make up and present state of the production facilities, the technology and quality controls as well as some other aspects will be evaluated by Arcelor Consultants.

The results of audits of company’s ability to produce substrate both in terms of technology and management will be presented by Arcelor Consultants in the final report. These results will be taken into consideration in the make up of training programs for Severstal’s technical personnel, involved in the Severgal project.

05 March 2003