A quality operating procedure (QOP) is a written document composed of step-by-step instructions used to complete a routine operational task. These procedures help to achieve efficiency, performance, and quality control.
Quality Operating Procedures are important to ensure that production operations are performed consistently to maintain the quality of products and processes.
The purpose of operational procedures is to define systems, assign responsibilities and authorities, and provide instructions for carrying out activities comprising the quality system. Operational procedures explain the what, when, who and how for each activity; identify interfaces for the activity; and instruct who should be informed and how the results of the activity should be recorded.
PPS uses specific coding for our operational procedures such as QOP-SS-NN. QOP stands for Quality Operational Procedure, SS is the section in the quality manual to which the procedure pertains, and NN is the consecutive number of a procedure for the section.
Importance of Quality Operating Procedures
1. Increases Business Productivity
QOPs can be beneficial for companies that produce the same product over a long period of time. PPS has been working with a Fortune 100 manufacturer for over 80 years. The procedures help to increase business productivity.
2.Processes Remain Consistent as the Company Expands
PPS is expanding so QOPs can make the work processes portable. Our new employees at the new location can uphold our reputation by using the same QOPs to replicate the products and services provided at the original location.
3.Reduces Errors
Standardized procedures help guide our employees and reduce the possibility of missed steps that impact the quality of the completed product. A QOP ensures that our customers’ products are created in the same way from start to finish every time, creating consistency with high-quality products.
4. Keeps Processes within the Company
Writing down procedures helps to keep key information with the company. This is beneficial when new employees take over a process and for cross-training of employees. It is important for the company to have a physical copy of all work instructions and procedures with documented alterations and continual improvements noted.
5. Better Time Management
QOPs are a valuable component for a new hire, ultimately reducing training time. As PPS expands, we will be hiring more employees. With specific work instructions, the quality operating procedure details the checks for quality personnel.
As an ISO registered company, we use Quality Operating Procedures to remain consistent when following strict quality guidelines. PPS promises to maintain the quality of our customers’ products. Visit our website to join our quality team.
Peoria Production Shop follows strict quality standards with processes in place to ensure an understanding of the process for high-quality results. As an ISO certified company, you can have confidence in our commitment to meeting your specifications. We use in-process inspection reports (IPIR) to identify problems as they arise and immediately take corrective action. Our highly trained staff use these reports to streamline the inspection process and ensure work orders are completed accurately.
Prior to the inspection process, the supervisor is responsible for processing the work order and preparing the work station for the operator. During this step, the supervisor will fill out the specific information for the job on the IPIR such as the sales order, part number, quantity of order, package quantity per carton (bag or container), and specific work instructions to be used. The IPIR sheet stays with the product at all times.
After the workstation has been properly set up, the supervisor will inform the quality inspector of the job or new operator. This step can happen at any time of the work day as work orders are completed or operators are shifted around the facility.
The Inspection Process
Take IPIR Report and random sample of product from operator’s work area
Check a minimum of 5-10 pieces (according to work instruction quality guidelines)
Document findings on IPIR sheet
Communicate those findings with operator
If product is non-conforming, the quality inspector talks to the supervisor. A supervisor must sign off on the IPIR sheet before work can continue.
Quality inspector repeats the process every 30 minutes.
Along with the IPIR sheet, the quality inspector carries a daily report sheet and a work instructions binder to each area that requires inspection. The quality inspector is solely responsible for identifying errors. The supervisor is in charge of correcting any issues with products or processes such as a machine or scale calibration.
The IPIR sheet helps the quality inspector to recognize any patterns. Since the in-process inspection sheet is used for the full duration of the work order, the quality inspector can draw conclusions about an operator’s ability to perform the task or the effectiveness of a machine.
At Peoria Production Shop, we strive to add value to every product we touch. Our quality team follows strict policies and procedures. If we find that a particular employee is better suited to perform a different task than the one assigned, we place our workers where they excel and perform to the best of their abilities. This policy has proven to be beneficial to ensure that we provide high-quality products, on-time and with consistency.
At PPS, we use in-process inspection reports and materials to aid in-process inspections and to ensure finished products meet customer specifications. We promise to do our part and take appropriate action as needed so our customers can succeed. Visit our website to see how we can further your company’s success as a value-added, quality supplier.
