PAGES EXECUTIVEQuality Control Checklist for Textile Testing A garment quality control checklist is a document used by textile manufacturers and suppliers that clearly outlines product specifications and quality requirements for a particular product. The garment quality control checklist should be drawn up before production begins, and then used on-site as a refer- ence guide for the manufacturer and supplier throughout the production. The quality control list can also be referred to as an inspection criteria sheet (ICS), a QC checklist, a quality assurance checklist, or quality control sheet. Manufacturers may want to have the checklist translated into the supplier’s lan- guage to avoid misunderstandings. Here are some of the items included on a garment quality control checklist: Garment Requirements - Garment weight and dimensions - Garment materials - Garment color (consider including Pantone color codes where applicable) - Garment markings and labeling such as sizes, textile composition Packaging requirements - Packaging weight and dimensions - Shipper's labeling and marking requirements - Shipper's boxing material requirements - Packaging method and assortment - Retail packaging and labeling specifications A garment quality control checklist also gives instructions on the instruments that should be used to carry out measurements, and on who should supply those instruments. The QC checklist ultimately determines what constitutes a pass or fail for the production of a product or parts of a product. Why Do We Need a Garment Quality Control Checklist for Textile Testing? -As well as outlining quality standards and product requirements for both supplier and manufacturer of textiles, a QC checklist provides objective criteria for inspecting the product to ensure it meets cus- tomer expectations. -A quality control checklist can be used by internal or third-party quality control inspectors along with an approved product sample for testing purposes. -Prevention is better than cure -Consider a quality control checklist as a reliable preventative measure against damage control, which allows for any defects to be spotted early on in supply and production, avoiding mistakes that could otherwise go unnoticed and be very costly in the long run. -If you share a detailed quality assurance checklist with your supplier before production begins, the supplier has a chance to review your requirements and let you know whether or not your needs can be met, or suggest any amendments before mass production begins. Using a quality control checklist ensures the following: -You, the textile manufacturer, and your supplier avoid conflict or confusion, and have a tangible agreement on your mutual expectations -Defects in the finished product are prevented -Your product meets the regulatory standards for your retail market -Your supplier is held to expectations of product quality and standards -Quality control inspectors have specific criteria to follow - before, during, and after production -Shipping requirements are met to avoid product rejection by customs inspectors -Quality Control is Essential for International Regulatory Bodies Products destined for various international markets may have to meet different safety and quality require- NCM-APRIL 2020 18