RE: decentralize QC function

[Steven_S_Prevette@rl.gov]

In my last job in the Navy, we worked to eliminate the QC function, but
never quite got there.  As we went through the evolution, we discovered:

1.  QC personnel have received specialized training over and above the
"regular" worker.  They have knowledge of Quality Control requirements,
inspection standards.  The "regular" worker needs to pick up on some of this
specialized knowledge.  This is necessary if you want to build quality into
the process, rather than inspecting for it at the end.

2.  One cannot simply "dissolve" the QC department in one fell swoop.  Sheer
chaos will prevail, and bad product will get shipped.  That is because
quality has not yet been build in to the process.  Simply "turning the keys"
over to production won't provide continuity.  Decentralization of QC is more
of an evolution than a quick re-organization.

3.  There are still going to be some critical processes that need a second
set of eyes.  Some consideration needs to be made for those processes where
QC personnel observed and certified critical measurements that two workers
be assigned so there is some backup.  Don't overdo it (we don't want the
issue of if multiple people are "responsible" then no one is), but it may be
necessary.

4.  Leadership by senior management in quality manners becomes even more
important when you no longer have the "QC Police" patrolling.

Steve Prevette
Site Technical Authority for Statistical Trending
Environment, Safety and Health
Fluor Hanford, A Fluor Global Services Company
ASQ Certified Quality Engineer
steven_s_prevette@rl.gov
509-373-9371