Quality Assurance and the Law

English law lays down standards governing not only the quality of end products, but also the processes and systems by which it is achieved. Assuming no prior knowledge, this text provides an understanding of English law as it relates to quality assurance in manufacturing and service industries.

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Over the last 25 years there has been a considerable increase in the awareness of quality related issues. In the world of business and commerce, this awareness has manifested itself in the development of what was the British Quality Standard BS 5750 into what is now the international standard BS EN ISO 9000. Alongside all of this, consumers in general have developed increasingly demanding expectations with regard to the quality of goods and services available in the market place. During a similar period there has also been an increase in legislation, together with an expansion of the common law, which has strengthened the protection already afforded to the consumer.

This book will provide quality practitioners, managers and those with a general interest in quality, with an insight into the legal issues involved. In addition, the book shows how the implementation of a Quality Assurance Management System - such as that required in order to be registered as a firm of assessed capability, in accordance with BS EN ISO 9000 - can act as an aid to businesses seeking to comply with their legal obligations.

In addition, for those following a formal course of study, the contents will prove to be particularly useful to students undertaking the Institute of Quality Assurance's Associate Membership examination: Principles and Techniques of Quality Assurance.