MIL-I-45208

Entitled "An Inspection System," this quality specification pertaining to military items sets forth the objectives and essential elements of an inspection system, and was referenced in a contract whenever an inspection system was required for the item. This system was used when technical requirements required in-process as well as final end item inspection, including control of measuring and testing equipment, drawing and changes, and documentation and records.

This requirement impacted both large and small businesses alike. In simple terms, it meant that you had to document your inspection system to assure continuity.

This spec was canceled a few years ago, along with MIL-STD-45662 (calibration standard), but there are many contracting officers and contracts that still require it, but don't use the name.

In the Business Tools area is a Sample Quality Assurance Manual that you can use to help develop a QA program for your company. It is based on MIL-I-45208.