Sourcing And Quality Process

Most quality disputes are specification disputes. A product that was never defined in writing cannot be judged against anything afterwards. So the first step on any line is a written specification: material, finish, size, colour reference, packing, marking and any documentation you need with the shipment.

Where the original product data gives a figure, we quote that figure. Where it does not, we mark it to be confirmed rather than filling the gap with an assumption.

• Sample against the written specification, not against a photograph
• Photograph the approved sample from several angles and keep it on file
• Sign the sample off in writing, including colour and packing
• Use the approved sample as the reference for every subsequent order

Agree what is checked and how many pieces are checked before the order runs, not after. For this catalogue the practical check points are: colour and finish against the approved sample on anodised parts, dimensional check against the published pattern sizes on inserts and tools, function check on anything mechanical or electrical, and a packing and carton marking check on everything.

If you use a third party inspection agency, tell us at order stage so the schedule allows for it.

Ask for the documents you need at quotation stage rather than at shipment stage. For helmets and protective equipment this matters most, because certification is article specific and market specific. We will send what applies to the exact pattern you are buying, and if a document does not exist for that pattern we will tell you it does not exist.