Quality Control Facts vs Myths: Fundamentals Explained
Fundamentals of Quality Control
Purpose:
To help learners identify common misconceptions about QC and replace them with accurate understanding, while reinforcing UK-specific laws and standards.
Myths and Facts Table
| Myth | Fact | Workplace Example | Relevant UK Law/Standard |
| QC is only needed at the end of production. | QC should be integrated throughout the production process to prevent defects. | Inspecting concrete batches at multiple stages before pouring foundations. | ISO 9001:2015, BS EN 206 |
| Preventive measures are optional. | Preventive measures are essential to avoid defects and reduce costs. | Calibrating mixing machines for asphalt before use to prevent non compliant layers. | ISO 9001:2015, CDM Regulations 2015 |
| Corrective actions can wait until the project is finished. | Corrective actions should be implemented immediately to avoid safety risks or costly rework. | Re-welding steel beams that fail inspection before installation. | HSWA 1974, ISO 9001:2015 |
| QC is the sole responsibility of the QC team. | Quality is everyone’s responsibility; all employees contribute to QC. | Construction workers reporting defects in concrete mix proportions. | ISO 9001:2015, HSWA 1974 |
| Statistical tools are too complex and unnecessary. | Statistical QC tools like control charts and sampling help identify trends and prevent recurring defects. | Using ISO 2859-1 sampling for concrete cube tests. | ISO 2859-1, ISO 9001:2015 |
| Documentation is optional. | Documentation ensures traceability, compliance, and accountability in QC processes. | Maintaining inspection logs for steel welds and concrete batches. | BS 1192, ISO 9001:2015 |
| Continuous improvement is only for large companies. | Continuous improvement benefits all organizations by reducing waste and enhancing efficiency. | Implementing PDCA cycles to reduce recurring asphalt defects. | ISO 9001:2015 |
Learner Task
Instructions:
- Review the Myth vs Fact table.
- Identify three myths that you have encountered or believed in your workplace.
- For each myth:
- Explain why it is incorrect.
- Provide a real UK workplace example where the correct fact is applied.
- Identify the UK law or standard that supports the correct practice.
- Create a short illustrative poster or infographic summarizing myths and facts in QC for UK construction or manufacturing projects.
- Write a reflection (100 words) on how understanding these myths vs facts can improve QC compliance, product reliability, and workplace safety.