NQA-1 provides a framework for conducting and documenting business operations through a quality assurance program. It structures key elements like manuals, procedures, activities, documentation and records into a pyramid model. Contrary to common myths, NQA-1 can reduce costs by eliminating rework and ensuring quality is built into processes from the start. While regulatory in the nuclear industry, the principles apply broadly to help any organization operate efficiently and minimize errors. Audits verify compliance and help continually improve the program.

1. NQA-1Nothing ScaryThe BasicsDan Murphy, CQA

2. NQA-1 and The Quality PyramidNQA-1 is how you conduct and document your business. Thinking of NQA-1 as a business operating model as opposed to a regulation that we must follow, converts the paradigm of high cost of operating to a paradigm of cost control.It may be the least expensive QA Program any firm can implement – The governing document is free, 10 CFR 50, Appendix B.

3. Why The Difficulty?At first glance that graphic was not all that scary

4. We have a manual which leads to

5. Some Procedures as to what we will do

6. To activities we will perform which produces

7. Documents that validate what we didMythsNQA-1 is expensiveQuality Assurance is a Non-Value Added activityQuality Assurance is QA’s responsibilityPause for a Moment

8. What is so expensive about this? Most organizations are already performing these sections of the pyramid

9. NQA-1 only organizes and structures what you do

10. There is nothing scary about NQA-1

11. Companies large and small spend more time trying to figure out how NOT to do something – this is the expensive part.

12. Having a Plan and knowing what you want to accomplish is the keyCustomerReceives a quality productReliable productIncrease customer’s bottom line by decreasing operating costsProducer

13. Reduces costs by reducing rework

14. Gets things right the first time

15. ALL VALUEQuality Assurance Adds Value

16. The short answer – EVERYBODYNQA-1 (The QA Program) is a team approachEach activity of an organization supports the nextA contract is not full-filled by QAThe organization is a machine that produces a productHow the machine operates is dictated by the QA ProgramWho’s Responsibility?

17. ManualWritten based on ASME NQA-1It does not have to be complicatedWritten in support of the activities you performThe manual becomes your statement that you will operate to the applicable requirements of NQA-1The ComponentsQA Manual