Inspection Level
Meaning ~ The statistical parameter in acceptance sampling that dictates the sample size of a batch of goods based on the total lot quantity and chosen severity.
Sampling Severity
Meaning
Statistical quality control systems adjust the intensity of the product audits based on the historical performance of the supplier. This operational level, known as sampling severity, can be set to reduced, normal, or tightened levels of inspection. Buyers use this mechanism to optimize their inspection budgets while maintaining quality.
Inspection Plan
Most quality agencies use sampling severity guidelines from standards like ISO 2859-1 to determine the number of units to test. When a new factory is hired, inspection starts at the normal level. If consecutive batches pass without issues, the inspector can switch to a reduced level, which saves time and money.
Supplier Performance
A string of failed audits triggers an transition to a tightened sampling severity. This change increases the sample size, making it much harder for the factory to pass with a high defect rate. It forces the supplier to improve their production quality to return to normal testing.
Production Penalty
Tightened sampling severity increases the inspection labor cost because more units must be analyzed and tested. Under standard supply contracts, the factory must pay for these extra audit days if they are caused by repeated failures. This rule encourages the supplier to resolve quality issues quickly, as the mounting inspection costs can erase their profit margin.