nutzz said:
First, thank you very much for you help.
Unfortunately, it is upper management that is pointing the finger. We utilize CA/PA but how many can you issue before it just gets old?
Several examples of “we should know better”
1 Material shipped without being certified even though we issued a bench certification that was distributed to all parties involved.
2 Skids were moved out of the Quality HOLD FOR DISPOSITION which is clearly labeled in big bold letters and a neon orange sign stating the same is put in the traveling folder.
Ok, #1 sounds like a communication issue. Who gets copies of the certification/notice it has been issued? Make sure the one(s) squaking the loudest is(are) on the list. Answer any further complaints with "notification was sent via attached email(or other coorespondence) sent HH:MM:ss xx/xx/04" and make sure it is circulated at least 1 level above them. Make sure you document everything like the certification to those above you. It is just CYA good policy. Even if it is the top manager, it won't take too many embarassing "here-it-was-moments" for them to get the message.
When delivering the message, it is very important for you to mention that it is your usual procedure (once it has been) for the information to be delivered the way you sent it. Ask the "offended party" if the method of communication is not working, and if it is not, what better way would they suggest? Remember, it is your goal to inform, and the lack of communication is the issue here, not personalities. However, once it is seen that you are communicating, then pointing a finger at you, when they had the data all along, will be something they will want to avoid. Attack the communication problem. The people will likely take care of themselves. Just to be sure it is the problem you are attacking, not the people. Even if it is the top person.
Number 2. We use cheap plastic marking ribbon (marking tape), the type surveyors use, to wrap around suspect pallets. Cheap, quick, easy to see, and NO EXCUSE for moving it by unauthorized people. If the pallet checks out OK later, remove the tape (there is no adhesive on it) and ship the pallet out. We keep rolls of it around where the key people always have a roll when they need it. Make sure you outline who can put on/remove the tape.
Hope this helps.