ALFED Membership Eligibility
Eligibility Criteria
The Aluminium Federation (ALFED) is the unified voice of the UK aluminium industry, dedicated to promoting innovation, sustainability, and growth across all sectors from production and processing to recycling and trade. We advocate for our members by engaging with policymakers both domestically and internationally, championing fair market conditions, and supporting research and development.
Through collaboration, we provide strategic direction, industry insights, and a platform for members to influence policy and drive positive change. ALFED is committed to safeguarding the future of the aluminium industry, ensuring its continued contribution to the economy and society.
To maintain its high standards and ensure continued support for its members, ALFED requires that all current and prospective members meet specific eligibility criteria.
Membership Eligibility Overview
To be eligible for ALFED membership, companies must meet the following conditions:
- All Board and Standard member companies must be registered at Companies House and actively operating within the UK aluminium industry.
- Companies applying for Associate Level Membership must have an acting representative registered and operating within the UK.
- Members must be actively engaged in the aluminium sector, whether through production, processing, or supply chain activities. This includes, but is not limited to, primary production, extrusion, recycling, and distribution of aluminium.
- Members must be directly involved in the production, processing, recycling, or supply of aluminium, which includes both primary and secondary aluminium.
- Eligible activities encompass production and reduction of raw aluminium, smelting, refining, rolling, extruding, drawing, casting, forging, fabricating, finishing, anodising, painting and powder coating of aluminium products.
- Membership is open to organisations involved in handling, trading, and distributing aluminium or aluminium alloys, which may include entities responsible for logistics, warehousing, or transporting aluminium products within the UK and internationally.
- This also extends to businesses specialising in recycling and the provision of aluminium scrap for secondary processing, in line with ALFED’s commitment to sustainability and circular economy principles.
- Organisations focused on innovation, research, and technological advancements related to aluminium processing, as well as those engaged in environmental management practices and recycling enhancements, are eligible for Associate Membership.
- This includes suppliers of specialised equipment, services, or consulting that directly support the aluminium industry, ensuring their offerings are aligned with ALFED’s objectives to drive industry-wide efficiency and sustainability.
- Member companies must adhere to recognised industry standards and regulations, demonstrating a commitment to quality, health and safety, and environmental sustainability.
- Evidence of certifications and accredited practices for the following standards are required where applicable:
- ISO 9001: This international standard specifies requirements for a quality management system (QMS) and is essential for ensuring consistent quality in products and services.
- IATF 16949: Particularly relevant for companies supplying the automotive sector, this standard specifies the requirements for a QMS specific to the automotive sector and its supply chain.
- ISO 14001: This standard sets out the criteria for an environmental management system (EMS), helping organisations improve their environmental performance through more efficient resource use and waste reduction.
- ISO 50001: Focused on energy management, this standard provides a framework for organisations to improve energy performance, efficiency, and sustainability.
- ISO 45001: This standard provides a framework to manage occupational health and safety (OH&S) risks and opportunities, helping to create a safer working environment for employees.
- OHSAS 18001 (if not yet upgraded to ISO 45001): Although ISO 45001 has largely replaced it, this occupational health and safety standard is still relevant for organisations that have yet to transition.
- Aluminium Stewardship Initiative (ASI) Standards: These include the ASI Performance Standard and Chain of Custody Standard, which promote responsible production, sourcing, and stewardship of aluminium throughout its life cycle.
- BS EN 15088: Specific to structural aluminium products, this standard sets out requirements for conformity assessment related to sustainable use in construction.
- ISO 37001: This standard focuses on anti-bribery management systems, supporting ethical practices and compliance with anti-corruption laws.
- SA8000: A social accountability standard for fair treatment of workers, which is valuable for companies prioritising social responsibility and ethical labour practices.
- BS EN 755: For aluminium and aluminium alloy extruded rod/bar, tube, and profiles.
- BS EN 573: For aluminium and aluminium alloy chemical composition and forms of products.
- BS EN 485: Pertaining to aluminium and aluminium alloy sheets, strips, and plates.
- REACH Compliance: Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals is essential for companies dealing with substances within the European market, ensuring safety and environmental impact control.
- RoHS Compliance: The Restriction of Hazardous Substances standard is vital for companies involved in electrical and electronic equipment to ensure restricted use of certain hazardous materials.
- NADCAP Accreditation: For companies involved in the aerospace sector, this certification is crucial for compliance in processes such as heat treating, chemical processing, and materials testing.
- CE Marking: Required for products sold within the European Economic Area, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental protection standards.
- ALFED seeks members that are genuinely committed to advancing the UK aluminium industry. Members must demonstrate this by supporting growth, innovation, and sustainability efforts.
- Members must demonstrate a commitment to advocating for fair trade practices, promoting the expansion of aluminium use, and supporting efforts to enhance environmental performance in the aluminium sector.
- Member companies must provide evidence of their contribution to the UK economy. This can include job creation, technological innovation, or other significant economic impacts related to their operations within the aluminium sector.
- Members must be in good standing with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), fully compliant with all tax obligations. ALFED reserves the right to revoke membership if a member is found to be in violation of tax laws or has outstanding tax liabilities, as non-compliance with HMRC obligations is contrary to the Federation’s commitment to ethical and lawful business practices.
1. Business Registration
2. Business Activities
3. Compliance with Industry Standards
Quality Management
Environmental Responsibility
Health and Safety Management
Sustainability and Recycling
Ethical Business Practices
Product-Specific Standards
General Compliance Standards
Industry-Specific Certifications
4. Responsibility to the Aluminium Sector
5. Contribution to the UK Economy
Checklist for Membership Eligibility
To apply for or continue membership, prospective and current members must provide the following documentation:
- Proof of Registration:
- A valid Companies House registration number.
- Business Activities:
- A summary of your company’s operations, including a description of aluminium-related activities.
- Information on the number of employees engaged in aluminium-specific roles.
- Compliance Certification:
- Documentation proving compliance with industry standards, including health and safety certifications, and relevant accreditations as stated in the Eligibility Overview.
- Contribution to the UK Economy:
- Supporting documents that highlight your company’s contribution to the UK economy. This could include reports on job creation, R&D initiatives, or economic impact assessments.
- Responsibility to the Aluminium Sector:
- Evidence that your company actively contributes to the growth and sustainability of the aluminium industry. This can include participation in industry initiatives, sustainability practices, or innovation projects and other trade associations.
Membership Application Process
Step 1:
Complete the ALFED Membership Application Form, which is available online or via direct request from the ALFED office.
Step 2:
Attach the required documents as outlined in the checklist, ensuring that all information provided is up-to-date and accurate.
Step 3:
Submit your application either via email to sallen@alfed.org.uk or alfed@alfed.org.uk or by post to the ALFED headquarters.
Step 4:
Applications will be reviewed by the ALFED Board on a quarterly basis to assess eligibility. The Board retains the discretion to approve or reject applications based on how well applicants meet the membership criteria.
Step 5:
Upon approval, new members will be informed of their membership class, benefits, and any relevant responsibilities.
Membership Criteria Clarification
As part of ALFED’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity, the membership process has been designed to ensure a fair evaluation of all applicants. By clarifying the membership criteria, we aim to:
- Uphold the integrity of the Federation.
- Ensure members demonstrate a tangible commitment to the aluminium sector.
- Build a cohesive and diverse community of members that positively contribute to both the industry and the UK economy.
ALFED reserves the right to review and adjust membership eligibility requirements as necessary, particularly considering evolving industry standards and the Federation’s long-term strategic goals. Any changes to the eligibility criteria will be approved at Board level.