Question

A quality inspector alleges she is suffering retribution because she follows established procedures in documenting all defective hardware and not permitting 'hand-backs.' As head of Quality, what are your views?

1) 'Hand-backs allow the production line to fix the hardware and keep the assembly line going. We've got a schedule to meet.'
2) We have to work hand-in-glove with production operations. Not charging them for every little mistake makes their record look a little better. After all, we are a team.'
3) 'I'm an experienced inspector and I know what's serious and what isn't. The really serious cases are the ones we want to make sure we document.'
4) 'The policy states all will be documented–and that means all.'

Answer 1

As head of Quality, upholding established procedures by documenting all defective hardware is essential, aligning with ethical standards and legal requirements. This ensures product safety, aids in continuous improvement, and can protect the company in case of legal disputes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question at hand revolves around the issue of quality control and the repercussions faced by a quality inspector enforcing documented procedures within a corporation. The discussion touches upon the intersection of quality compliance, operational efficiency, and ethics within organizational practices. As a quality inspector, following established procedures and documenting defective hardware are crucial responsibilities that align with legal, ethical, and company standards, and serve as part of the broader organizational commitment to quality and safety. This is underscored by regulatory frameworks, such as those enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which prioritize worker safety over production quotas or financial considerations.

The different viewpoints presented show a range of perspectives within the organization. However, the most appropriate standpoint as head of Quality is the one that upholds the established company policy, which is to document all defective hardware, as indicated in the fourth response. This not only maintains integrity but also provides valuable data that can lead to improved manufacturing processes and products. It is essential to acknowledge and address the serious concerns of the potential 'hand-back' issue, and create a culture where quality and safety are never compromised for expediency or cost-saving measures.

Documenting all defects, as mandated by company policy, is important for various reasons. For engineers, such documentation is invaluable for understanding design failures and improving future designs. It also serves as a defense in the case of legal issues, as precisely documented defects can be crucial evidence. This closely ties into the fundamental responsibility of ensuring the production of safe and reliable products, which is the cornerstone of a quality-driven organization.