Aspects to be underlined

The QA activities are fundamental in order to attain safety in a plant. Over the years, the QA method has been demonstrated in many sectors of production and service activities as the most effective and efficient means to obtain the desired quality. In many production sectors it has replaced the method of product control, substituting it with the control of the process which originates the product itself. 

Product controls are included in the more general QA methods. 

QA is a rather costly activity (a component can cost much more if a stringent QA requirement is specified), therefore every QA requirement must be accurately weighed against its real need the approach must always be graded and proportionate. It has been known in some cases, for defective application of the method to have produced more paper than quality and this must, by all means, be avoided. 

Governmental organizations control safety reviews of the QAP and conduct audits on its implementation this is an important aspect of the control and supervision activity. 

IAEA (1988) Code on the safety of nuclear power plants quality assurance. IAEA Safety Series N.50-C-QA (Rev.l), International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna. 

---