Quality Control

Quality Control Quality Control is the collection of duties which are performed to ensure that the product produced conforms to laid down standards. Decisions need to be made on the method of inspection and how quality is to be maintained. Involves the setting of standards, monitoring the standards, assessing and testing.

Quality control The quality specification will be set at the design stage. Decisions must be made on the method of inspection and how quality is to be maintained, though the process will involve:

Setting of standards which all products must attain. Monitoring the standard of the products produced. Assessing and testing the materials used.

All products produced must normally satisfy three criteria: They are fit for a defined purpose. That they have the ability to perform as required for a reasonable period of time. That they conform to a specified standard.

Quality may be judged by: Appearance. Performance. Dimensional exactness. Structural soundness.

Quality Assurance Quality Assurance is the process of ensuring standards are achieved and maintained throughout production and delivery. It means ensuring that the product satisfies certain criteria, these are: that they are fit for a defined purpose and that they conform to a specified standard.

Quality Assurance This is the assurance that a product satisfies three criteria: That it is fit for a defined purpose. It has the ability to perform as required for a reasonable period of time. That it conforms to a specified standard.

achieving quality objectives Setting of Standards Monitoring Assessment

Setting of Standards These would be laid down in the specification, though these must conform to planning, public health and construction regulations, British Standard (BS) Codes of Practice and any other regulations and byelaws

Monitoring This would be carried out by the client's representative and external agents, for example, the Building Control Officer. It would involve site inspections and the use of quality control forms. It would also ensure that work is carried out according to the specification and that all materials delivered to site are of the required standard and not damaged

Assessment Ensuring conformity Use of check lists Testing of materials.

Quality must consider: Performance – Considers what it must do. Reliability – It must be able to perform for a reasonable period of time without failure. Conformance – This is the degree to which specification is met. Durability – This is the length of time a product lasts before it needs to be replaced. Serviceability – looks at the service that the product gives, the amount of repair that may be needed and the time taken to repair. Aesthetics – This is how the product looks and feels. Perceived quality – This can be subjective judgment that results from image.

Quality Management System An effective Quality Management System will improve business performance because: customers requirements will be understood The way to satisfy their requirements will be known understand how to organise and control business to minimise errors and waste improve profitability and competitiveness.

The benefits a Quality Management System (QMS) Improved customer satisfaction Elimination of errors and waste Reduced operating costs Increased motivation and commitment from employees Increased profitability and competitiveness.

The system must: Be based on understanding your business, your customers and their requirements Be management led Involve all employees in its implementation Focus on preventing errors rather than merely detecting and correcting them Be able to evolve as the company changes.

Benefits of a QMS Identify the requirements of its customers Ensure it is able to supply products and services in accordance with those requirements Ensure delivered products conform to those requirements.

Satisfied and loyal customers due to goods or services always being produced according to requirements Reduced operating costs as waste is eliminated or reduced and efficiency increased as a result of eliminating non-conformance. Improved competitiveness and profitability as operating costs are reduced Improved morale as employees develop greater understanding of the business, are able to work efficiently, and are involved managing their working environment.

Benefits of External Assessment and Registration It provides evidence to customers that the QMS has been independently assessed as effective. This is increasingly important as a marketing edge over competitors. It avoids duplication of customer assessments. Most customers accept and recognise ISO9000 approval. It provides evidence of a responsible attitude to quality, and to product and service liability requirements.