Chapter 13. Quality, Standards and Efficient Work

Quality means meeting agreed requirements and customer expectations. Quality management systems, such as ISO 9001, describe how organizations plan, control and improve quality [21].

Standards and codes. Standards (international, national or industry) set requirements for materials, methods, safety and testing. Building codes and electrical regulations are legal requirements in many countries. Use current versions.

Plan–Do–Check–Act (PDCA). A cycle for continuous improvement: plan a change, try it, check results, then standardize or adjust it [22].

5S for a tidy, efficient workplace [23]:

Sort: remove what is not needed.

Set in order: a place for everything.

Shine: clean and inspect.

Standardize: make the rules consistent.

Sustain: keep the habit.

Lean thinking. Focus on value for the customer and reduce waste, such as waiting, over-production, defects, unnecessary movement and extra processing [20].

Inspection and testing. Check work at each stage, record results, report defects and correct their causes rather than hiding them.

Documentation. Job cards, checklists, logbooks and maintenance records provide proof of work done and help future troubleshooting.

Time management. Plan tasks, prioritize, prepare tools and materials in advance, and communicate delays.

Review: List the five S’s. (Answer: Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain.)