ITAR compliance is a critical step in the manufacturing process. Without it, you could be at risk of violating federal law. SiTech operates its manufacturing facility as ITAR compliant, even for parts that do not specifically require it, resulting in added security and confidentiality measures.
ITAR, or International Traffic in Arms Regulations, is a set of export control regulations that is overseen by the United States Department of State (DOS). These regulations are used to control items on the United States Munitions List or the Missile Technology Control Regime which applies to things intended for defense-related applications or military end-use.
ITAR is important for manufacturers when they take on a new customer or project request for items falling under ITAR classifications. To be able to accept the job, the manufacturer has to take steps to prove they are ITAR compliant. To renew ITAR compliant certification, or to achieve it initially, the company needs to complete an annual application for registration with the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC). This application offers an explanation of the types of defense activities the company is involved with, as well as what the company’s role will be. The company also has to pay a registration fee at the time of application submission.
Requirements Must Be Followed
Manufacturers have to follow certain requirements in order to remain compliant with ITAR standards. This includes not allowing foreign nationals to access data, information, or products. Whereas many manufacturers designate ITAR zones within their facilities where a badge is required for individual access, we treat our whole facility and the processes within it as ITAR classified. That means everyone has to be ITAR qualified while following DOS regulations.
Showing proof of ITAR compliance is a big deal for businesses like ours. Even though the products we produce aren’t directly listed on the United States Munitions List, we want to cover our bases so that if they ever are, they will already be ITAR compliant and in line with the law. In short, following the rules now ensures we’re covered in the future, and by extension – you’re covered too.
Because we work with the military frequently, ITAR compliance is a high priority for us. After all, we design and make our silicone keypad products in one of the more military-focused region in the country: Newport News, VA. This is where our headquarters is.
ITAR Compliance Checklist
While the exact sequence will vary by type of business or manufacturer, here’s a general look at the process of following ITAR compliance:
- Determine jurisdiction
- Review the ITAR
- Register with the U.S. Department of State Directorate of Defense Trade Controls
- Classify goods using the USML
- Know the end user and end product
- Apply for an export license
- Fulfill reporting requirements
- Create and maintain an export compliance program
In the end, it’s important to be aware of the end use of the products we’re producing. We take ITAR compliance seriously and would be happy to talk with you about it. Contact us at 757-887-8488 to learn more.
