Quality Assurance & Control Flashcards

Which QA method best measures whether graders give consistent results over time?

Answer: Blind regrading of the same stones at intervals (repeatability and reproducibility study)

Repeatability and reproducibility studies measure variation within and between graders.

What does PDCA stand for in a continuous improvement program?

Answer: Plan-Do-Check-Act

The Deming cycle, Plan-Do-Check-Act, is a basic model for continuous quality improvement.

A repeated mislabeling problem has been fixed. Which action makes it a preventive action rather than a corrective one?

Answer: Changing the labeling procedure so the error cannot happen again

Preventive action removes the root cause of possible future problems, while corrective action fixes the current one.

When memo goods arrive from a supplier, what is the key incoming inspection step?

Answer: Check each item's identity, weight, and description against the memo before signing

Checking items before accepting responsibility prevents liability for missing or misdescribed goods.

Which tool is commonly used to organize the possible causes of a quality problem?

Answer: An Ishikawa (fishbone) diagram

A fishbone diagram groups possible causes, such as methods, materials, people, and equipment, for root cause analysis.

In acceptance sampling, what does AQL stand for?

Answer: Acceptable Quality Limit

AQL is the highest defect rate considered acceptable when sampling a lot.

What is the best final inspection check after a stone is set in prongs?

Answer: Check the prongs under a loupe and confirm the stone does not move or rotate

Secure prongs and a stone that does not move confirm setting quality and help prevent loss.