LEVELS OF ESSENTIALITY
A number of early failures in certain submarine and
surface ship systems were traced to use of the wrong
materials. This led to a system of prevention that
involved levels of essentiality. A level of essentiality is
a range of controls, in two broad categories, representing
a certain high degree of confidence that procurement
specifications have been met. These categories are
l verification of material, and
l confirmation of satisfactory completion of test
and inspections required by the ordering data.
Levels of essentiality are codes, assigned by the ship
according to the QA manual, that indicate the degree to
which the ships system, subsystem, or components are
necessary in the performance of the ships mission.
These codes indicate the impact that catastrophic failure
of the associated part or equipment would have on the
ships mission capability and personnel safety.
LEVELS OF ASSURANCE
QUALITY ASSURANCE IS DIVIDED INTO
THREE LEVELS: A, B, or C. Each level reflects certain
quality verification requirements of individual
fabrication in process or repair items. Here, verification
refers to the total level of quality controls, tests, and/or
inspections. Level A assurance provides for the most
stringent of restrictive verification techniques. This
normally will require both quality controls and test or
inspection methods. Level B assurance provides for
adequate verification techniques. This normally will
require limited quality controls and may or may not
require tests or inspections. Level C assurance provides
for minimum or as necessary verification techniques.
This level will require very little quality control of tests
or inspections.
The QA concept involves preventing the occurrence
of defects. QA covers all events from the start of a
maintenance action to its completion and is the
responsibility of all maintenance personnel.
By carefully following the methods and procedures
outlined in your QA program manuals and by paying
careful attention to the quality of work in your area, you
will contribute greatly to the operational effectiveness
of your ship as well as tended units. For further in-depth
knowledge concerning the QA procedures and
practices, consult your area COMNAVSURF LANT/
PACINST QA manual.
SUMMARY
In this chapter, we have discussed some of your
important administrative and training responsibilities
and the different methods you can use to properly
perform these responsibilities. Remember, information
is usually available when you need it. You just have to
know where to look for it and make the effort to secure
it.
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