DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY 

TROOP SUPPORT PHILADELPHIA

SUBSISTENCE SUPPLIER OPERATIONS DIRECTORATE

SUPPLIER SUPPORT DIVISION

QUALITY AUDITS AND FOOD DEFENSE BRANCH

QUALITY SYSTEMS AUDIT

WORKBOOK I

DOCUMENTED QUALITY SYSTEMS PLAN 

EVALUATION GUIDELINE

PARTNERS IN QUALITY

February 2021 

Revision 8
FORWARD

The Quality Standard ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001 Quality Management Systems -Requirements, is 

the quality standard referenced in Operational Rations contracts/Technical Data Packets. This 

standard, ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001, is applicable to suppliers required to submit a documented 

Quality System Plan (QSP) and performing under the higher-level contract quality 

requirements. Documented QSPs modeled using ISO 9002:1994 should reference 

ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001. Suppliers that currently have a QSP rated acceptable and are 

successfully performing under the higher-level contract quality requirements should continue 

performing under their approved documented QSP.

This workbook was developed using the guidance and requirements of the following 

documents: ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001 Quality Standard; DLAR MPC Clause 52-246-9001 

Manufacturing Process Controls and In-Process Inspection; Statistical Process Control Quality 

Assurance Provision (SPC QAP); and ISO 10012-1 Control of Inspection, Measuring, and Test 

Equipment, and; general requirements cited in the Operational Rations Technical Data Packets 

(TDP) specifying Higher Level Contract Quality requirements. The workbook was developed 

to standardize the evaluations of documented QSPs developed using ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001, 

other recognized industry quality standards, or a non-standard supplier’s specific process 

control system. When the Higher Level Contract Quality requirements are cited in the contract, 

suppliers are to clearly specify their preferred documented quality system in accordance with 

ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001, a system that meets other recognized industry quality standards, or a 

process control system that is equivalent to or better than ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001. If the 

supplier proposes an alternate (i.e., non-standard) process control system, this shall be clearly 

stated in the QSP. Regardless of the standard or non-standard document used to model the 

QSP, the QSP shall address, at a minimum, the elements cited in the contract and, within each 

element, the supplier shall provide the information requested in each section of this workbook.

This revision contains the following significant changes:

1. DLA Troop Support’s Organizational changes and responsibilities.

2. Food Defense Plans will be maintained as a separate program and evaluated by the

DLA TROOP SUPPORT-FTSB personnel.

3. Integrated Pest Management cited in Section IX. Regulatory Controls was revised.

Program will be maintained as a separate program and evaluated by the DLA TROOP

SUPPORT-FTSC entomologist.

4. Minor changes were made to some sections to facilitate the planning and performance

of DLA Troop Support quality system audits.

5. The FDA CFR requirements apply (a) CFR Title 21, Chapter 1, PART 117 Current Good

Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, Risk Based Preventive Controls for Human Food;

(b) CFR Title 21, PART 113, FDA Thermally Processed Low-Acid Foods Packaged in

Hermetically Sealed Containers- (LACF), and (c) CFR Title 21, Part 121 Mitigation Strategies

to Protect Food Against Intentional Adulteration (IA regulation).

i 

To download a copy of this guideline go to the DLA Troop Support Subsistence web-site at 

https://www.dla.mil/Portals/104/Documents/TroopSupport/Subsistence/FoodSafety/FoodQuality/TS_qsp_

151204.pdf or contact the Supplier Support Division, Quality Audit & Food Defense Branch (DLA

Troop Support- FTSB) or the applicable Contracting Officer. Beneficial comments

(recommendations, additions, and deletions) of any pertinent data which may be used in improving

this document should be addressed to: Defense Logistics Agency-Troop Support, Directorate of 

Subsistence, Bldg. 6 FTSB, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5092, and telephone: (215) 

737-8656 or 5353. 
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

SECTION I. Management Responsibility and Quality System Design ....................................... 1

Area 1 - Management Responsibility ...........................................................................1

Area 2 - Quality System...............................................................................................2

Section I Auditor's Notes........................................................................................... 3

SECTION II. Training........................................................................................................................4

Section II Auditor's Notes......................................................................................... 5

SECTION III. Document and Data Control and Control of Quality Records................................ 6

Area 1 - Document and Data Control ............................................................................ .6

Area 2 - Control of Quality Records...............................................................................6

Section III Auditor's Notes...........................................................................................7

SECTION IV. Control of Inspection, Measuring, and Test Equipment ...........................................8

Section IV Auditor's Notes......................................................................................... 10

SECTION V. Control and Protection of Product.............................................................................. 11

Area 1 - Handling, Storage, Packing Packaging, Preservation, and Delivery Program .11 

Area 2 - Product Identification and Traceability Program.............................................11

Area 3 - Inspection and Test Status and Records...........................................................11

Area 4 - Control of Nonconforming Product..................................................................12

Section V Auditor's Notes.............................................................................................14

SECTION VI. Contract Review, Purchasing and Control of Customer-Supplied Product .... 15

Area 1 - Contract Review..............................................................................................15

Area 2 - Purchasing ........................................................................................................15

Area 3 - Control of Customer-Supplied Product............................................................ 16

Section VI Auditor's Notes.......................................................................................... 17

SECTION VII. Receipt Inspection and Testing .................................................................................. 18

Page

ii
Section VII Auditor's Notes.....................................................................19

SECTION VIII. In-Process and Process Inspection and Testing........................................................20

Area 1 – Procedures ..................................................................................................... 20

Area 2 – General Statistical Process Control Requirements..........................................21

Section VIII Auditor's Notes........................................................................................23

SECTION IX. Regulatory Controls............................................................................24

Area 1 – General Regulatory Requirements...................................................24

Area 2 - Integrated Pest Management Program............................................................. 25

Section IX Auditor's Notes.....................................................................26

SECTION X. End Item Inspection and Testing.............................................................27

Section X Auditor's Notes.....................................................................28

SECTION XI. Internal Audits....................................................................................29

Area 1 - Audit Schedule..........................................................................29

Area 2 - Performance of Internal Quality Audits.............................................29

Area 3 - Documentation And Reporting of Audit Results...................................29

Section XI Auditor's Notes......................................................................30

SECTION XII. Corrective and Preventive Action.............................................................31

Area 1 - Corrective Action.......................................................................31

Area 2 - Preventive Action....................................................................... 31

Section XII Auditor's Notes....................................................................32

SECTION XIII. Improvement.....................................................................................33

Area 1 – Customer Satisfaction..................................................................33

Area 2 – Improvement............................................................................33

Section XIII Auditor's Notes....................................................................34

REFERENCE LIST...................................................................................................35

APPENDIX A QSP SUMMARY RATING SHEET............................................................36

APPENDIX B FDP SUMMARY RATING SHEET............................................................38

iii
LIST OF TERMS, ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

1. ANSI: American National Standards Institute

2. ASQC: American Society of Quality Control

3. CAR: Corrective Action Request

4. CFR: Code of Federal Regulations

5. DFAR: Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation.

6. DLA: Defense Logistics Agency

7. DLAM: Defense Logistics Manual

8. DLAR: Defense Logistics Regulation

9. DLA-TS: Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support 

10. FAR: Federal Acquisition Regulation

11. FDA: Food and Drug Administration

12. FDP: Food Defense Plan

13. HACCP: Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point

14. IPMSP: Integrated Pest Management and Sanitation Program

15. ISO: International Organization for Standardization

16. LCL: Lower Control Limits

17. LSP: Lower Specification Limits

18. MPC: Manufacturing Process Controls

19. QA: Quality Assurance

20. QAP: Quality Assurance Provision

21. QAR: Quality Assurance Representative

22. QAS: Quality Assurance Specialist

23. QC: Quality Control

24. QIIR: Quality Improvement Initiative Report

25. QS: Quality System

26. QSP: Quality System Plan

iv
27. SPC: Statistical Process Control

28. TDP: Technical Data Package

29. UCL: Upper Control Limits

30. USA PHC: United States Army Public Health Center 

31. USDA: United States Department of Agriculture

32. USDA-AMS: (USDA Agricultural Marketing Services)

33. USDA-FSIS: USDA Food Safety Inspection Services

34. USL: Upper Specification Limits

35. VECP: Value Engineering Change Proposal Program

v
GENERAL QUALITY SYSTEMS PLAN AND QUALITY SYSTEMS REQUIREMENTS 

(ISO 9001 ELEMENTS 1 – 3 AND SECTION E OF THE TDP)

1. SCOPE

1.1. GENERAL: This workbook was developed using the guidance and requirements of the following documents: 

ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001 Quality Management Systems- Requirements; DLAR MPC Clause 52-246-9001 

Manufacturing Process Controls and In-Process Inspection; Statistical Process Control Quality Assurance Provision 

(SPC QAP); ISO 10012-1 Control of Inspection, Measuring, and Test Equipment, and; general requirements cited in 

the Operational Rations Technical Data Packets (TDP) specifying Higher Level Contract Quality requirements. The 

workbook was developed to standardize the evaluations of documented Quality Systems Plans (QSPs) developed 

using ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001, other recognized industry quality standards, or a non-standard supplier’s specific 

process control system.

1.2 APPLICATION: When the Higher Level Contract Quality requirements are cited in the contract, suppliers 

are to clearly specify their preferred documented quality system in accordance with ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001, a system 

that meets other recognized industry quality standards, or a process control system that is equivalent to or better than 

ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001. If the supplier proposes an alternate (i.e., non-standard) process control system, this shall be 

clearly stated in the QSP. Regardless of the standard or non-standard document used to model the QSP, the QSP shall 

address, at a minimum, the elements cited in the contract and, within each element, the supplier shall provide the 

information requested in each section of this workbook. Documented QSPs are submitted by suppliers for the purpose 

of demonstrating their capability to meet the higher-level contract quality requirements and for Procurement 

Contracting Officers (PCO) to assess a supplier’s capability to meet these requirements. The Government will 

recognize a supplier’s quality system whenever it meets the contract requirements, whether the quality system is 

modeled on military, commercial, national or international quality systems standards. The design and implementation 

of a QSP will be influenced by the varying needs of a company, its particular goals and objectives, the products 

produced, and the processes and specific practices employed in the operation. The intent of the requirements is for 

suppliers to improve process capability, process control which, when used effectively, can result in a preventionoriented approach rather than a detection approach that will improve product quality and lower cost through a single 

quality system in any supplier facility. Suppliers are required to establish, document, submit for Government 

evaluation, and maintain a quality system as a means of ensuring that product conforms to the requirements of the 

contract. However, it should be emphasized that the quality system requirements cited in the selected standard/nonstandard document are complementary (not alternative) to the contract specified requirements.

2. NORMATIVE REFERENCE:

A. The documented QSP shall include the quality system procedures, reference or include working instructions and 

forms, and outline the structure of the documentation used in the quality system. The Higher Level Contract Quality 

Requirements (HLCQR), MPC Clause, SPC QAP apply to all operational rations Contractor-Furnished Material 

(CFM) and Government-Furnished Material (GFM) food components and Sub-Assembly and Assembly Operations, 

unless specifically excluded in the contract (only the SPC QAP is entirely excluded from some contracts and for some 

components in some contracts). However, regardless of the standard or non-standard document used to model the 

QSP, if the QSP satisfactorily addresses, at a minimum, the elements cited in the contract and, within each element, 

the supplier submit the required documentation and provides the information requested in each section of this 

workbook, the supplier’s QSP will be demonstrating their capability to meet the higher-level contract quality 

requirements, the requirements cited in ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001, MPC Clause, and the SPC QAP. Redundant 

areas/requirements (cited in the MPC Clause or the SPC QAP) need only be addressed once in the QSP and must 

encompass the requirements of the most stringent document. The calibration of measuring and testing equipment 

shall, as a minimum, adhere to the requirements of ISO 10012-1 (supplier must identify in QSP the document selected 

for their calibration system).

vi
If the quality manual (QM) or QSP’s tier or procedures submitted do not include the documents requested or 

satisfactorily answer the questions in this workbook; the working instructions, forms (containing instructions), or 

other secondary documents must be included (regardless of QM or QSP’s tier) in order to receive an acceptable rating. 

A DLA Troop Support Quality System Qualification Certificate will be issued once the supplier’s QSP is rated 

acceptable and a Government Quality System Compliance Audit has been conducted to verify the implementation and 

compliance of the approved QSP and the effectiveness of the system implemented in consistently producing 

conforming product meeting the requirements specified in the contract. The acceptability of the QSP and the quality 

system qualification may be withdrawn under the following circumstances or as indicated in the contract: The supplier 

fails to implement and comply with the approved QSP; fails to submit QSP revisions for Government review and 

approval (as indicated in the contract); and/or fails to make changes to the QSP when this is no longer effective or the 

system implemented is not capable of consistently producing conforming product.

B. Documented QSPs will be evaluated by the Supplier Support Division, Quality Audit & Food Defense Branch 

personnel, the Operational Rations Coordinators from each respective inspection office (USDA-AMS/USA Public 

Health Center) and the Government In-Plant QARs assigned to perform Government QA at the supplier’s plant. 

Aforementioned Government personnel will use this evaluation guideline (in conjunction with the standard or other 

documents identified in the supplier’s QSP and other general requirements cited in the TDPs), as the basic framework 

against which they will evaluate documented QSPs.

C. This workbook is divided into 13 sections. Note that Section XIII Improvement is a requirement not an option. 

The language cited in this section contains requirements cited in element 8 of ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001 and the 

Operational Rations TDP. Each section of the workbook contains the applicable reference document: The applicable 

elements of ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001; MPC Clause; SPC QAP; ISO 10012-1; Code of Federal Regulations, and other 

general requirements cited in the Operational Rations TDPs. If additional information or clarification is necessary, the 

referenced documents shall be consulted.

NOTE: TO THE EXTENT OF ANY INCONSISTENCY BETWEEN THE CONTRACT OR ITS GENERAL 

PROVISIONS AND A SUPPLIER’S QSP, THE QUALITY STANDARD SELECTED, THIS WORKBOOK, 

AND/OR IMPLEMENTED QUALITY SYSTEM, THE CONTRACT AND THE GENERAL PROVISIONS 

SHALL CONTROL.

vii

SECTION I

MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY AND QUALITY SYSTEM DESIGN

REFERENCE: Contract TDP Section E, MPC Clause, SPC QAP, Specific Product Specifications or Commercial Item Descriptions, 

ISO 9001 (4, 4.1, 4.2.1, 4.2.2, 5, 5.1, 5.3, 5.4.1, 5.5, 5.5.1, 5.5.2, 5.6, 6, and 6.2) and ANSI/ASQC Z1.4.

Max Points Assigned

AREA 1. MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY (ISO 5):

A. QUALITY POLICY (ISO 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, and 5.4.1):

1. Are the company's policy, objectives, and commitment to quality identified?

2. If statistical process control techniques are used, does the QSP identify the policy for 

applying SPC and the goals and commitments for using SPC?

3. Is the company’s policy relevant to the overall organizational goals and the expectations 

and needs of the Government?

4. Does the QSP identify how top management ensures that the quality policy is 

communicated, understood, and maintained at all levels of the organization?

B. ORGANIZATION (ISO 5.5 and 5.5.1):

1. Responsibility and authority: Specific names of individuals do not have to be provided as 

long as the positions are identified. An organization chart must be included to illustrate and explain the 

relationship of the quality assurance (QA) and production personnel to the rest of the organization and

the assignment and responsibilities of QA and production personnel within the organization:

a. Was a copy of the organization chart included?

b. Does the chart clearly illustrate and identify the relationship of quality to 

production personnel?

c. Is the relationship of quality and production to the overall organization clearly identified?

2. Resources requirements (ISO 6 and 6.2):

a. Does the QSP identify management personnel (by position and assignment) responsible for 

the overall implementation and effectiveness of each section of the QSP?

b. Does the QSP identify the assignment of trained personnel responsible for the supervision, 

performance of work, and verification activities such as inspection and testing at each location identified in the 

QSP?

3. Management Representative (ISO 5.5.2): Does the company identify the manager(s), 

irrespective of other responsibilities, who have the defined authority for: (1) Ensuring that the quality system is 

established, implemented, and maintained in accordance with the quality standard selected and the contract 

specified quality requirements; (2) reporting on the performance of the quality system to the company’s top 

management for review and as the basis for improvement of the system, and or; (3) represent the company as a 

liaison between the contractor and DLA Troop Support on matters relating to the company's quality system?

C. MANAGEMENT REVIEW (ISO 5.6):

1
SECTION I Continued

Max Points Assigned

1. Does the company's identify the manager, with executive responsibility, who is responsible for

reviewing the quality system to ensure its continuing suitability and effectiveness in satisfying the requirements 

of the quality standard selected, the company's stated quality policy and objectives, and the requirements of 

DLA Troop Support contracts?

2. Is the interval for management's quality system review defined?

3. Is the interval sufficient to meet the requirements of the standard selected, contract requirements,

and company's stated quality policy and objectives? The frequency shall not be less than the frequency of

DLA Troop Support compliance audits for a contractor’s facility (at least annually).

4. Does the company indicate the type of records to be maintained for the management

reviews?

AREA 2 QUALITY SYSTEM (ISO 4): The information required in this area needs to be evaluated after all 

other sections of the QSP are evaluated.

A. QUALITY SYSTEM DESIGN (ISO 4, 4.1, and 4.2.1):

1. Is the quality standard used to develop the QSP identified (if a non-standard document was

used or if the supplier used this guideline, workbook I, to develop their QSP, this must clearly be

indicated in the QSP).

2. Does the QSP, at a minimum, cover the elements cited in the contract TDP?

B. QUALITY SYSTEM PROCEDURES (ISO 4.2.2):

1. Does the QSP include procedures covering the quality system implemented as a means of

ensuring product conformance to contract requirements? NOTE: If the quality manual (QM) or QSP tier or 

procedures submitted do not include the documents requested or satisfactorily answer the questions in this 

workbook, the working instructions, forms (containing instructions), or other secondary documents must be 

submitted (regardless of QM or QSP tier) in order to receive an acceptable QSP rating.

2. Are the procedures consistent with the requirements of the quality standard selected

and the requirements of the contract?

3. If the working instructions (that define how each activity is performed) and forms used were

not included with the QSP, are these identified in the document master list and referenced in the documented 

procedures?

C. QUALITY PLANNING (ISO 5.4.1):

1. Does the QSP clearly define how the requirements for quality will be met?

2. Is the QSP consistent with the company's policy and quality objectives, documented to suit

the company's method of operations, and the requirements of the contract?

TOTAL POINTS : 100

2 
SECTION I AUDITOR’S NOTES (justification/comments must be provided for areas/questions found marginally acceptable, 

unacceptable or not addressed):

3 
SECTION II 

TRAINING

REFERENCE: Contract TDP Section E, MPC Clause, SPC QAP, CFR, ISO 9001 (6.2.2) and the DLA TROOP SUPPORT

Food Defense Checklist

Max Points Assigned

GENERAL: The contractor shall establish and maintain documented procedures for identifying training needs 

and provide the training of all personnel performing activities affecting quality. Personnel performing specific 

assigned tasks shall be qualified on the basis of appropriate education, training and or experience, as required by 

the contract, regulatory agency, and company for each position. Copy of records (certificates, diplomas, and 

other record of attendance of internal or external training) shall be maintained for each employee.

A. Training Manager: Does the QSP identify the company's manager (by position) responsible for the overall

implementation and effectiveness of the contractor's training program and the person responsible for maintaining 

training records?

B. Training and Qualification Requirements:

1. Supervisory Personnel: Does the QSP identify the training/qualification requirements for supervisory

personnel (by position as identified under resource requirements) responsible for ensuring implementation 

compliance and effectiveness of the quality systems program (covering the 13 areas of the QSP) and the Food 

Defense Plan)?

2. Non-supervisory personnel: Does the QSP identify the qualification and training requirements

for personnel (by position/grouping of positions) performing inspections, testing, monitoring, and recording the 

following activities (as applicable to the assigned position): document and data control; Integrated Pest 

Management and Sanitation Program; handling, storage, packaging, preservation, and delivery program; product 

identification and traceability; control of nonconforming material; contract reviews and purchasing; receipt 

inspection and testing; in-process and process inspection and testing; regulatory requirements and controls; 

statistical process controls; end item inspection and testing; internal audits; corrective and preventive actions; 

and Food Defense compliance.

3. Regulatory/Contractual Training Certification Requirements: Does the QSP identify personnel by

position required by regulatory agencies, contract and/or the contractor to be certified or trained in a specific 

technical skill (e.g., Processing Authority, retort supervisors, retort operators, HACCP manager, container 

integrity/can seam technicians, water treatment technicians, sanitation personnel, pest management personnel, 

etc.)?

4. Compliance with Training Certification Requirements: Does the QSP identify the steps to be taken to

ensure personnel (responsible for performing, monitoring or ensuring compliance to regulatory requirements) 

obtain the required certifications/qualifications for each position identified above (training may be the same for 

same or similar positions)?

C. The QSP must identify the following for each section or quality activity identified above, other areas

of the QSP and Food Defense Plan: (same or similar jobs may be grouped together if the training requirement

is the same):

1. Who will be trained (by position)?

2. How much training is planned (new employees and current employees)?

3. Types and extent of training (academic, On-the-Job-Training, or combination).

4. Who will conduct the training and where will the training take place (internal or external source)?

TOTAL POINTS : 100 

4 
SECTION II AUDITOR’S NOTES (justification/comments must be provided for areas/questions found marginally acceptable, 

unacceptable or not addressed):

5 
SECTION III

DOCUMENT AND DATA CONTROL AND CONTROL OF QUALITY RECORDS

REFERENCE: Contract TDP Section E, MPC Clause, SPC QAP, Specific Product Specifications or Commercial Item Descriptions, and 

ISO 9001 (4.2, 4.2.1, 4.2.3 and 4.2.4).

Max Points Assigned

GENERAL: The contractor shall establish and maintain documented procedures to control all records and 

documents related to the requirements of the quality standard selected and the contract requirements. The 

procedure must also include control of documents of external origin such as commercial or Government 

standards, specifications, regulations, other documents, and all data generated by the quality system.

AREA 1. DOCUMENT AND DATA CONTROL (ISO 4.2.1 and 4.2.3):

A. Does the QSP include a master list or equivalent document-control procedure identifying the

current revision status of documents being used by the company (procedures, working instructions, forms, 

reports or other documents)?

B. Does the QSP state how documents and data are reviewed and approved for adequacy prior to

issue?

C. Does the QSP indicate how the contractor ensures the appropriate documents (procedures,

working instructions, specifications, contract, or other documents) are available at all locations where operations 

essential to the effective functioning of the quality system are performed?

D. Does the procedure ensure against the unintended use of invalid and or obsolete documents

at all points of issue or use?

E. Does the QSP indicate that changes to documents shall be reviewed and approved using the

same procedure and by the same function that performed the original review and approval? If not, the plan 

should specifically designate otherwise.

AREA 2. CONTROL OF QUALITY RECORDS (ISO 4.2.4): The contractor shall establish and maintain 

documented procedures for the identification, collection, indexing, access, filing, storage, maintenance, and 

disposition of quality records and other records generated by the system.

A. Does the procedure indicate how records will be identified/collected/ indexed/filed (e.g., by

product, lot number, etc.)?

B. Does the procedure indicate how and where (internal/external location) records will stored/

maintained? Based on the storage location identified, does it appear that records can be readily retrievable? 

NOTE: Ready retrievable is defined as retrievable within 1 day (24 hours) of request during an audit or in the 

case of a hazardous food recall.

C. Is the storage facility identified (location of storage) suitable to prevent damage or deterioration

and to prevent loss of records?

D. Retention period and review: Does the record retention procedure indicates that all records,

documentation pertaining to DLA Troop Support contracts will be retained and be available for review and 

evaluation by Government personnel during production of the contract and for a period of three years after 

completion of the contract?

TOTAL POINTS: 100

6 
SECTION III AUDITOR’S NOTES (justification/comments must be provided for areas/questions found marginally acceptable, 

unacceptable or not addressed)

7 
SECTION IV

CONTROL OF INSPECTION, MEASURING AND TEST EQUIPMENTREFERENCE: Contract TDP Section E, MPC SPC 

QAP, ISO 10012, and ISO 9001 (7.6)

Clause,

Max Points Assigned

GENERAL: The contractor shall establish and maintain documented procedures to control, calibrate, and maintain 

inspection, measuring, and test equipment and measuring devices used by the company to demonstrate the conformance 

of product to requirements of the contract and the contractor’s QSP requirements. The procedures must be developed 

based on the requirements cited in ISO 10012-1 

(the document selected must be identified) and other requirements of the contract as applicable.

A. Does the QSP include a clear and complete calibration program that complies with the above documents for all

inspection, measuring and test equipment? A master list of all measurement and test equipment that will be used for all

inspections and testing activities and indication whether the equipment needs calibration, adjustment or maintenance

must be included with the QSP. NOTE: Although the current calibration dates are not required to be reflected on the

list, the list must, at a minimum, contain the following (a revised list needs to be submitted when a new piece of

equipment is added or deleted or calibration frequencies are changed):

1. List of all equipment (by description) that require calibration/certification.

2. List of standards (test weights, certified thermometers, etc.) used to perform internal calibrations or preoperational checks on equipment.

3. Identification (serial number/other ID) of each piece of equipment and standard listed.

4. Calibration frequency for equipment (and standard calibration/certification frequency) and who performs the

calibration for each piece of equipment (internal or external source).

5. If a pre-operational check is conducted, identify the frequency and acceptable calibration tolerance for each

piece of equipment that requires a pre-operational check prior to use.

6. Location of equipment (if not at same location indicate portable).

Example of List

Equipment Serial # Calibration Performed

or ID # frequency by

Pre-op Performed Standard Location Internal 

frequency by Used Procedure

O’Haus Scale XXX Quarterly External 

Dial thermometer 1 Prior to use QA MIG

Thermometer 3 Annually External

Prior to use QA 100 grams Portable QAI-01 Rev B N/A

N/A MIG I Receipt QAI-02 Rev C N/A

N/A See certificate Retort # 1 See certificate

Standards ID # Calibration Performed Location Standard

Frequency by .

MIG thermometer 1

Test weight set (100gr-500gr) 1 

Test weight 25 Lbs. 3 

Annually External QA Lab See Certificate

*Certified External QA Lab See certificate

*Certified External Receipt See certificate

*Replaced or re-certified when damaged

B. Procedures/Documentation: Does the QSP provide for complete documentation of the calibration program

(references or includes procedures, working instructions and forms or reports used to insure all required information is

properly documented and records are maintained)?

1. For each piece of equipment or grouping of equipment (e.g., scales, thermometers) that requires calibration, preoperational check, adjustment, maintenance, as applicable, the procedures shall include the following: The reference to 

the applicable calibration instruction/procedure for internal calibrations or pre- operational checks conducted or the 

procedure itself, acceptable calibration tolerance for each piece of equipment that requires a pre-operational check or 

calibration, and measurement standard that applies. Note: This information may be included on the master list.

8
SECTION IV Continued

Max Points Assigned

2. Does the QSP require that operators perform a pre-operational check to ensure equipment is

functional and within tolerance?

3. Does the QSP indicate how and when (frequency) the seal bars for each sealing machine/

seamer are checked? Does the QSP identify the optimum temperature range/requirement to obtain an 

acceptable seal and form used to record results? NOTE: The DoD Task Force of 1986 identified not

checking the seal bars as a major weakness in the system and a possible contributor to flexible pouches seal 

problems and the contractors’ inability to identify the “real” root cause of the problem and

take effective corrective/preventive action.

4. Does the QSP indicate that all measuring and test equipment and measurement standards will be

labeled to indicate calibration status (the calibration sticker attached to of each piece of equipment/standard must 

identify the date calibration was performed, next calibration due date, and who performed the calibration).

5. Does the QSP include a procedure to recall equipment that is due for calibration (for example, how

the contractor ensure each piece is calibrated at the established intervals)?

6. Does the QSP include a procedure for identification and prevention from use of faulty equipment?

NOTE: Faulty equipment should be tagged/labeled and, if possible, removed from production areas/point of use.

C. Does the QSP stipulate the contractor will make available all measuring and test equipment required by the

Government QAR to perform Government verification inspections at the contractor or subcontractor’s facilities

and upon request make personnel available for operation of such equipment?

TOTAL POINTS: 100

9 
SECTION IV AUDITOR’S NOTES (justification/comments must be provided for areas/questions found marginally acceptable, 

unacceptable or not addressed)

10
SECTION V

CONTROL AND PROTECTION OF PRODUCT

REFERENCE: Contract TDP Section E, MPC Clause, SPC QAP, Specific Product Specifications or Commercial Item Descriptions, and

ISO 9001 (7.5.3, 7.5.5, and 8.3) and ANSI/ASQC Z1.4.

Max Points Assigned

AREA 1. HANDLING, STORAGE, PACKING, PACKAGING, PRESERVATION, AND 

DELIVERY PROGRAM (ISO 7.5.5):

A. Does the QSP include a procedure that identifies the methods for the handling, preservation, and

protection of product and packaging materials (especially packaging that comes in direct contact with the 

product) to prevent its contamination, cross-contamination, or damage during production or clean-up?

B. Does the QSP include a procedure that identifies the designated areas or stock rooms and

the methods of storing product and packaging materials (especially packaging that comes in direct contact with 

the product) to prevent contamination, cross-contamination, damage or deterioration of product/materials 

pending use, storage, or delivery?

C. Does the QSP include a procedure that identifies the appropriate methods used for authorizing

receipt and release of product/ingredients/materials from storage areas?

D. Does the QSP include a procedure that identifies an appropriate interval to assess the condition

of product in stock to detect damage or deterioration?

E. Does the QSP include a procedure that identifies the methods to control packing,

packaging and marking processes (including materials used) to ensure conformance to contract requirements?

AREA 2. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND TRACEABILITY (ISO 7.5.3):

A. Does the QSP include a procedure for identifying product from receipt and during all stages of

production, assembly, and delivery?

B. Does the QSP include a procedure for unique identification of individual products or

batches?

C. Does the QSP include a procedure for hazardous food recalls mandated by Government

regulatory agencies or for contractor’s voluntary recalls of products found to be nonconforming with contract 

requirements or posing a potential health hazard to the consumer?

D. Does the QSP indicates if mock test recalls are conducted to test the effectiveness of the

contractor’s food recall program? If no, does the QSP indicate how the contractor measures the effectiveness 

of their recall capability?

AREA 3. INSPECTION AND TEST STATUS AND RECORDS (ISO 4.2.3, 4.2.4 and 7.5.3):

A. Inspection and test status (applicable to all stages of the processes describe in Section VII, VIII,

IX, and X):

11
SECTION V Continued

Max Points Assigned

1. Does the QSP describe the methods used to identify and maintain the inspection status

(conforming or nonconforming) of ingredients/components/ materials throughout the process (from receipt to 

finished product), to ensure only conforming ingredients/components/materials are released for production/ 

assembly, and only conforming product is released for shipment?

2. Does the QSP provide for an adequate method to place product on hold until all the

required inspections and tests have been completed or necessary reports or approvals have been received and

verified by authorized personnel prior to releasing ingredients/components/ materials for production/assembly 

and/or end item lots for shipment?

B. Inspection and test records (ISO 4.2.3 and 4.2.4):

1. Does the QSP contain procedures and indicate that records must be established and maintained

to provide evidence that the end item lot has been inspected and tested and that it has passed the contractor’s 

end item inspection based on the defined acceptance criteria cited in the contract (prior to submitting the lot for 

Government verification inspection)?

2. Does the QSP stipulate that if a product fails any inspection, the nonconformance requirements

cited in the contract, as applicable, and the procedures for control of nonconforming product shall apply?

3. Does the QSP identify the person (maybe different positions) with the authority for the release

of ingredients/components/materials during receipt, storage, production, assembly, and/or shipment?

AREA 4. CONTROL OF NONCONFORMING PRODUCT (ISO 8.3):

A. Does the QSP include a procedure to prevent the unintended use of ingredients or assembly of

product that does not conform to specified contract requirements, pending test or inspection results, or other 

contractor’s requirements? NOTE: Pallets/cases of items placed on hold (for any reason) must be prominently 

marked or tagged with hold tags. Hold tags shall include, at a minimum, the following information: 

Identification of the item; lot number/subcodes if applicable; quantity (case quantity and/or partial case 

quantities); reason for hold; and date placed on hold. All items placed on hold must (as much as possible) be 

maintained together and each pallet must be tagged. As an option, if pallets are maintained together, pallets can 

be cordoned-off with caution tape (or other appropriate tape) and one tag placed on front of the pallets.

B. Does the QSP provide an effective system to identify the inspection status (conforming or

nonconforming) of components and materials and is system distinctly different from the Government's 

identification system? NOTE: Product found nonconforming by the contractor’s inspection system must be 

tagged by the contractor with contractor’s tags. Product found nonconforming by the GQAR’s during a 

Government verification inspection must be tagged with a Government tag by the GQAR (with contractor’s 

personnel assistance). Only a GQAR is authorized to remove Government tags.

C. Hold record/log: Does the procedure provide for the identification, documentation, evaluation,

segregation, and disposition of nonconforming product? NOTE: The contractor must develop and maintain a 

running record/log of ingredients/products/materials placed on hold (by the contractor or the GQAR).

This record/log must, at a minimum, contain the following information: Identification of the product; lot number/ 

subcodes, as applicable; quantity; date placed on hold; reason for hold; who placed the product on hold 

(contractor or GQAR); location and/or hold tag number; date released from hold; who released the product; and, 

the final disposition of the product. This is a quality history record that needs to be retained for the period 

indicated in the contract.

D. Does the QSP identify the person (maybe different positions) with the authority for the release of

items placed on hold and include a procedure for the review and authority for the disposition of nonconforming 

items found during any stage of the process (receipt, storage, production, assembly, end item, shipment, etc.)?

12
SECTION V Continued

Max Points Assigned

E. Does the procedure indicate that the Government must approve rework procedures or plans and

reworked product must be inspected according to Government approved procedures (as indicated in the contract) 

if the contractor opts to rework nonconforming product?

F. Disposal of Product Intended, Produced or Manufactured for the U.S. Government thru

Commercial Channels: Does the QSP include a procedure that indicates the steps to be taken by the contractor 

if they decide to donate, sell or dispose in commercial channels of any end item or any part of it intended, 

produced or manufactured for the U.S. Government? As a minimum, the procedure must include the following: 

Steps taken for the removal/obliteration/wipe-out from a product and it's packing and packaging, any markings, 

symbols, or other representation that the end item or any part of it was intended, produced or manufactured for 

the U.S. Government; identify the person (by position) responsible for verifying this action; identify the form/ 

report used to record the action taken (identifying product, lot/subcode, quantity produced, quantity donated/ 

sold/ disposed of by lot/subcode, the reason for this action, etc.)and; the procedure must also indicate that

the In-Plant Government QAR shall be notified prior to such action taking place.

TOTAL POINTS: 100

13
SECTION V AUDITOR’S NOTES (justification/comments must be provided for areas/questions found marginally acceptable, 

unacceptable or not addressed)

14
SECTION VI

CONTRACT REVIEW, PURCHASING AND CONTROL 

OF CUSTOMER-SUPPLIED PRODUCT

REFERENCE: Contract TDP Section E, MPC Clause, SPC QAP, Specific Product Specifications or Commercial Item Descriptions, and

ISO 9001 (4.2.3, 4.2.4, 7.2, 7.2.3, 7.4, 7.4.1, 7.4.2, 7.4.3, and 7.5.4) and ANSI/ASQC Z1.4.

Max Points Assigned

AREA 1. CONTRACT REVIEW (ISO 7.2): The contractor must establish and maintain documented 

procedures for contract reviews, document, data and record control and for the coordination of these activities.

A. REVIEW:

1. Does the QSP identify company's manager or personnel responsible for contract reviews

(before submission or acceptance of a contract or order)?

2. Does the QSP indicate how contract reviews are performed?

B. AMENDMENT TO A CONTRACT (ISO 7.2.3): Does the QSP indicate how amendments to a

contract are transferred and communicated to the functions concerned within the organization (to include the 

Government QAR) and external functions (subcontractors and suppliers) as applicable?

C. RECORDS (ISO 4.2.3 and 4.2.4): Does the QSP indicate who and where (location) records of

contracts' reviews will be maintained?

AREA 2. PURCHASING (ISO 7.4): The contractor shall establish and maintain documented procedures to 

ensure that purchased ingredients or components conform to contractor’s specified requirements and the

contract requirements. A master list of all ingredients and material used in the production must be included with 

each supplier identified for each ingredient.

A. EVALUATION OF SUBCONTRACTORS/SUPPLIERS (ISO 7.4.1):

1. Does the QSP indicate how suppliers/subcontractors are selected and evaluated (criteria used,

product or on-site audits conducted, etc.)?

2. Does the QSP define the type and extent of control exercised by the contractor

over subcontractors?

3. Does the QSP indicate what subcontractors are required to have a documented QSP, require

Government source inspection, and or any other specific quality assurance requirement (such as SPC)?

B. PURCHASING DATA (ISO 7.4.2):

1. The contractor must develop and submit with the QSP a master list of all ingredients/

components/materials used in the production/assembly of products intended for the Government. This list must 

identify the following for each ingredient/product/material (may be identify by grouping if same requirement): 

Paperwork/documents that are required to be received with each shipment (Certificate of Conformance, 

Certificate of Analysis, USDA Grading Certificate, Supplier Certification, Bill of Lading, etc.). If a COC covers 

several shipments (or entire contract), the period covered must be identified by the applicable item. The GQAR 

and receipt inspectors must be provided with a copy of this list. NOTE: The entire Section will be rated 

unacceptable if this information is not provided.

2. Does the QSP indicate how the contractor conveys purchase requirements to suppliers for

components and materials requiring Government source inspection, physical or chemical characteristic testing, 

requirements for approval or qualification of ingredient or product, or other specific requirements?

3. Does the QSP identify the steps taken if a subcontractor is required to submit a documented

QSP to the contractor or DLA Troop Support?

4. Does the QSP include a procedure for the review and approval of purchasing documents

for the specified ingredient/product prior to release?

15
SECTION VI Continued

Max Points Assigned

C. VERIFICATION OF PURCHASED PRODUCT (ISO 7.4.3):

1. Does the QSP indicate the steps to be taken if the contractor requires Government verification 

of ingredient or product conformance at source (the subcontractor’s plant) or if an ingredient or product requires 

Government source inspection??

2. Does the QSP indicate that the Government has the right to verify, at the subcontractor’s

facilities, that subcontracted product and/or quality system conforms to contractual requirements?

3. Does the QSP indicate or include a procedure to ensure that all inspection documents and

referenced data for purchased supplies that require Government source inspection or have particular requirement 

to be reviewed for accuracy and maintained on file for review by the Government QAR?

4. Does the QSP stipulate that the Government QAR shall be provided copies of Government

source inspection documents (grading certificates, laboratory analyses, etc.) and purchasing documents for other 

products for review within the contractor's facility or for verification at the supplier/ subcontractor's facility, as 

deemed necessary by the Government?

AREA 3. CONTROL OF CUSTOMER-SUPPLIED PRODUCT (ISO 7.5.4):

A. Does the QSP contain a procedure for the inspection, storage, and maintenance of Governmentfurnished material (GFM) provided for incorporation in the assembly of operational rations or to use in related 

activities?

B. Does the QSP contain procedures for the recording and reporting of GFM that is lost, damaged

or otherwise unsuitable for use by the Government?

TOTAL POINTS: 100

16
SECTION VI AUDITOR’S NOTES (justification/comments must be provided for areas/questions found marginally acceptable, 

unacceptable or not addressed)

17
SECTION VII

RECEIPT INSPECTION AND TESTING

REFERENCE: Contract TDP Section E, MPC Clause, SPC QAP, Specific Product Specifications or Commercial Item Descriptions, and

ISO 9001 (4.2.3, 4.2.4, 7.4.3, 7.5.3, and 8.2.4) and ANSI/ASQC Z1.4.

Max Points Assigned

GENERAL: The contractor shall establish and maintain documented procedures for receipt inspection and 

testing activities to verify that the requirements for the product or ingredient (contractor’s specified requirements 

and contract requirements) are met. The required inspection and testing and the records to be established, shall 

be detailed in the QSP.

A. Does the QSP include clear and complete receipt inspection procedures: Sampling plan (acceptance/rejection

criteria) and what constitutes a nonconformance for items that require receipt inspection in accordance with

contractor’s specified requirements or the contract requirements?

B. The contractor must develop and submit with the QSP a master list of all ingredients/components/materials

used in the production/assembly of products intended for the Government. Is the list included with the QSP?

NOTE: The list or the procedures must identify and clearly define the following for each ingredient/product/ 

material (may be done by groupings if same requirement): How the lot size is expressed for each item or group 

of items received (e.g. number of boxes, cans, pounds, yards, patties, steaks, pouches, containers received, etc.); 

the sample unit (e.g., the sample unit may consist of one or more units of product drawn from a lot for 

inspection purposes for each group of items received - number of boxes, cans, pounds, rolls, yards, pouches, one 

pound/one cup of product from large containers, 2 steaks/patties per sample unit/box, etc.); how samples will

be selected (for example random throughout the shipment, selected proportionally from each supplier’s 

lot/subcode/date of pack received, etc.); type of inspection (paperwork/certification verification with items 

received, visual/nondestructive, and/or destructive inspection/testing, etc.); number of temperatures taken and 

temperature requirements for frozen/chill products/ingredients; acceptance/rejection level; paperwork/ 

documentation that is required to be received with the shipment; and the protocol for coordination when a 

nonconforming item is received and/or required paperwork is not received with the shipment.

NOTE: The entire Section will be rated unacceptable if this information is not provided.

C. Does the QSP include or reference working instructions and forms to be used by contractor personnel to

ensure required information is properly documented and records are maintained?

D. Does the QSP contain a program that ensures only contractual inspection procedures (or Government

approved alternative procedures as detailed in the contractor’s QSP) are used for all receipt inspections?

E. Does the procedure ensure incoming product or ingredients are not used or processed until it has been

inspected or otherwise verified as conforming to specified requirements?

F. Is the amount and nature of receiving inspection consistent with the amount of control exercised at the

subcontractor’s plant and the recorded evidence of conformance provided (Government inspection at

subcontractor facility, USDA grading certificates, certificate of analysis, etc.)?

G. Does the QSP include a procedure positively identifying and recording product or ingredients released for

urgent production purposes prior to verification to permit immediate recall in the event of nonconformance to

specified requirements? Does the procedure indicate that the Government QAR will be notify before

such action takes place?

TOTAL POINTS: 100

18
SECTION VII AUDITOR’S NOTES (justification/comments must be provided for areas/questions found marginally acceptable, 

unacceptable or not addressed)

19
REFERENCE: Contract TDP Section E, MPC Clause, SPC QAP, Specific Product Specifications or Commercial Item Descriptions, and

ISO 9001 (4.2.2, 4.2.3, 4.2.4, 5.2, 5.3, 5.5.1, 6.2.2, 7.1, 7.4, 7.5, 7.5.1, 7.5.2, 7.5.3, 7.6, 8.2.2, 8.2.3, 8.2.4 and 8.4),ANSI/ASQC Z1.4, 

and ANSI/ASQC Z1.1thru ANSI/ASQC Z1.4.

Max Points Assigned

GENERAL: The contractor shall establish and maintain documented procedures for all in-process and process 

control inspection and testing activities to verify that the specified requirements for the product (cited in 

contractor’s QSP and the contract) are met. The required inspection and testing and the records to be established 

shall be detailed in the QSP procedures.

AREA 1. PROCEDURES: The QSP must include procedures that describe the production/assembly operations 

and how the contractor ensures these are carried out under control conditions to assure that product 

characteristics and criteria specified in the contract are achieved and maintained in the finished product 

(end item).

A. Does the QSP identify and define each in-process control point (IPCP) and/or process control

point (PCP) in sequence in relation to the production, subassembly/assembly flow or chain of events (from 

weighing/mixing/batching of ingredients, packaging, to final product)? NOTE: The entire Section will be rate 

unacceptable if the following information is not provided.

1. Are the location of each IPCP and PCP identified? Is the location appropriate to control

those factors that may have an effect on the safety, quality or conformance of the produced item (end item)? 

NOTE: The DoD MRE Task Force of 1986 and the DOD Tray Pack Task Force of 1992/94 identified not 

performing/documenting results of the 1st (pre-retort) and 2nd (post-retort) filled/sealed 100% inspection/ 

screening as one of the major weaknesses in the system. This weakness was also identified as a major contributor 

to the contractors’ inability to identify the “real” root cause of the packaging problem and to take timely and 

effective action to correct and prevent the problems.

2. Is each characteristic and/or process to be controlled and type of control technique

(manufacturing process control or statistical process control technique) to be used to control each characteristic 

or process identified at each IPCP or PCP?

3. Are the control measures and criteria for action (acceptable/unacceptable) for each

characteristic tested/examined at each IPCP and PCP Identified? Does the QSP indicate how and when the 

following are established (as applicable for SPC or MPC techniques): Upper control limits (UCL) and lower 

Control limits (LCL); upper specification limits (USL) and lower specification limits (LSL); and action limits 

and/or action number for reaction.

4. How, when and why are the above limits adjusted?

5. Is the sampling plan fully explained? The type and amount of inspection for each

characteristic or process to be checked/tested at each IPCP and PCP; location of sample selection; number of 

samples to be selected; frequency of testing (batch, subcode, time frame, etc.); and criteria for subgroup sample 

size, etc.

6. Does the procedure identify/define the tests used to identify “out-of-control” processes?

7. Is the criteria and frequency for verifying control of the process by QA identified?

8. How inspection results are documented (reference forms/ reports used)?

9. Is the following identified at each IPCP and PCP: Who performs inspections/tests; who records 

inspection or test results and/or plots data on control charts; who is responsible for identifying out-of- control 

situations; who initiates corrective actions, and who decides upon and implements corrective actions? NOTE: 

Maybe addressed in Section XII and should be addressed on several levels, that is, operator, supervisory, 

management.

B. Is sampling appropriate to production rate to identify variation in the process? Is rationale for

subgroups logical? Is data stratification addressed, as applicable?

20
SECTION VIII Continued

Max Points Assigned

C. Is the following identified for each IPCP and PCP: Inspection equipment and instruments used 

documents and supplies needed; and the work environment (lighting, temperature, etc.) under which specific 

tests/ inspections will be conducted?

D. Do the QSP inspection procedures ensure only contractual procedures or Government

approved alternative procedures are used to conduct in-process inspections and testing?

E. Does the QSP include procedures and reference or include working instructions for those

inspections (examinations or tests) performed during production on product characteristics that cannot be 

inspected at a later stage? If in-process control of ingredients, product or material is not practical, the procedure 

needs to identify alternative controls used (i.e., monitoring processing methods, equipment, or personnel).

F. Control of machines and product: How does MPC/SPC influence control? Is a mechanism for

feedback from SPC/MPC data evaluation for the control of machines and product delineated?

G. Are the type and extent of reliance on computer hardware and software used for SPC or MPC

explained in the QSP?

AREA 2. GENERAL SPC REQUIREMENTS (ISO 5.2 and 5.3): The contractor shall establish and maintain 

documented procedures to implement and control the application of statistical techniques identified by the 

contract SPC QAP or if SPC techniques are part of the contractor’s quality system. The required inspection and 

testing, controls, and the records to be established, shall be detailed in the procedures.

A. Does the QSP identify the need for statistical techniques required for establishing, controlling,

and verifying process capabilities and product characteristics? If SPC techniques are required by the contract to 

control a specific process or characteristic but the contractor deems SPC inappropriate, does the QSP identify 

alternative techniques and controls (MPC - Sampling, 100% screening, monitoring, etc.) for each process or 

characteristic identified in the contract to be controlled using SPC?

B. Did the Government approve alternative techniques and controls? Are these techniques

and controls clearly detailed above (Area A)? NOTE: The contractor shall identify the characteristics or 

processes required to be controlled using SPC techniques and indicate that MPC techniques will be used.

C. Statistical Analyses: The contractor must manage and improve process performance by

conducting statistical analyses (using pareto charts at a minimum) using SPC or MPC data collected at each 

IPCP and PCP for those characteristics requiring control, having an effect on the safety and/or the quality of the 

produced item (end item), and/or the defects from previous production or projection of potential defects in 

future production, to discern the vital few and repetitive type failures from the trivial many. At a minimum, the 

contractor shall identify (using SPC or MPC data collected):

1. How (by process, characteristic, item, etc.) Pareto analyses will be conducted?

2. Is the minimum frequency to conduct Pareto analyses identified? Pareto analyses should be

performed at least quarterly by item and characteristic identified in the contract, if SPC is contractuallyrequired.

D. The following shall be addressed as a minimum if SPC techniques are deemed appropriate to

control the process or SPC is contractually required:

1. Does the QSP provide a list or identifies the references used as guidance for the SPC

procedures and techniques described in the QSP? Minimum criteria are established in ANSI Z1.1, Z1.2, and 

Z1.3/ASQC B1, B2 and B3. Alternate SPC techniques such as short run methods are also allowed where 

applicable.

2. Are the characteristics or process to be controlled by SPC and operations where SPC will be

implemented identified?

21

;
SECTION VIII Continued

Max Points Assigned

3. Process capability studies: Process capability studies should be conducted to determine the

relationship of the natural manufacturing variability to the specified tolerance for each characteristic specified). 

The following should be addressed: When are studies performed in relation to award of a contract; criterion for 

study explained; definition of poor and marginal capability and the policy when capability is determined to be 

poor or marginal; and analysis of statistical distributions (that is, who, what, when, and how) needs to be 

explained in detail if SPC techniques are used.

4. Control Chart Policy (for each identified characteristic or process): Types of charts used

and pertinent facts to be recorded on control charts should be delineated for major factors of assignable cause: 

Raw materials, methodology, personnel (inspection and production), equipment, environment, measurements,

etc.

. 

TOTAL POINTS: 100

22
SECTION VIII AUDITOR’S NOTES (justification/comments must be provided for areas/questions found marginally 

acceptable, unacceptable or not addressed)

23
SECTION IX 

REGULATORY CONTROLS

REFERENCE: Contract TDP Section E, MPC Clause, SPC QAP, ISO 9001 (6.3, 6.4, and 7.2), Specific Product Specifications or

Commercial item Descriptions, applicable Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and or other regulations.

Max Points Assigned

GENERAL: The supplier shall establish and maintain documented procedures for complying with regulatory 

requirements cited in the contract or other regulatory requirements applicable to the plant’s operation

(this also include Food Defense and FDA plant registration). The required inspection and testing, controls, 

and the records to be established shall be detailed in the QSP procedures.

AREA 1. GENERAL REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS (ISO 7.2):

A. Does the QSP identify the regulatory requirements applicable to the plant’s operations and

products produced in the plant (applicable CFRs, contract pest management and sanitation requirements, and 

approval of plant by applicable regulatory agency/VETCOM, etc.)? NOTE: Food safety in plants, at a 

minimum, are to meet the requirements under Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA-Pub. L. 111-353); 

and CFR Title 21, Chapter 1, PART 117 Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, Risk 

Based Preventive Controls for Human Food; and PART 113 Low-Acid Food Packaging (LACF), and Part 

121 Mitigation Strategies to Protect Food Against Intentional Adulteration (IA regulation). 

B. Does the QSP include procedures and references and/or include working instructions and forms

used to monitor implementation and compliance of the following activities (if applicable to the plant and the 

products produced): (1) Review of operating process schedules and process schedules filed with the regulatory 

agencies; (2) HACCP plan (3) Partial Quality Control/Total Quality Control plans filed with the applicable 

regulatory agency (4) review of qualifications and training records of personnel performing activities or 

supervising retort area (5) review of pre-retort process controls (6) documentation of monitoring and control of 

critical factors cited in the process schedules, for example - maximum filled weight, maximum pouch/tray 

thickness, maximum residual gas, ingredient pre-batch hydration, slice thickness, viscosity, container orientation, 

product formulation and preparation procedures consistent with those indicated in the process schedule, etc.

(7) filling and sealing operation and control of the two-hour limit from filling and sealing to retort process

(8) application of heat sensitive tape to containers/retort carts prior to retort and verification after processing/post

retort color change (9) control of retorted and un-retorted traffic (10) control/monitoring of processing operation

11) recycled/reused cooling water system and cooling water treatment - frequency of monitoring, treating, and

documentation of results (12) control and review of incubator time and temperature (13) control of incubation

samples: recording of in-out dates, daily monitoring of samples, and results of incubation (14) control and review 

of retort records (15) documentation of problems and actions taken to correct and prevent the problemsidentified

(16) documentation and coordination of process deviations and final action taken (17) etc.

C. Does the QSP identifies the steps to be taken to comply with each of the regulatory requirements

applicable to the facility and how the contractor ensures required information is properly documented and that 

records are maintained as required by the contract and/or the regulatory agencies?

D. Sanitation requirements: Does the QSP indicate if the facility (facilities) is currently listed in the

Directory of Sanitarily Approved Food Establishments for Armed Forces Procurement (published by the USA

Public Health Center) or other applicable/approved directory (as indicated in the contract)?

The information included must be verified in the referenced directory, DLA Troop Support-FTW 

(Food Safety Office), and/or USA Public Health Center. 

For what products? 

When was the last inspection conducted?

E. Contractor/Supplier Pre-operational/sanitation Inspection:

1. Does the QSP indicate that the contractor/supplier must perform a pre-operational/sanitation

inspection prior to the GQAR verification inspection? Does the QSP identify/reference the

form/report used to record the results?

2. Does the QSP indicate that a copy of the report must be provided to the GQAR prior to the

GQAR performing their daily verification inspection?

24
IX Continued

Max Points Assigned

AREA 2. INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PROGRAM (ISO 6.3 and 6.4): This area is addressed

separately under the IPM Program or an attachment to the QSP (the documented IPM Plan, SSOP and 

HACCP plans are not required to be submitted to DLA Troop Support but a copy must be made 

available to the in-plant GQAR and available for review and auditing during DLA Troop Support audits). 

As a minimum the QSP must include the following:

A. Date of the IPM Master Program: Renewal/revision Date:

Date evaluated: Is the program acceptable? 

B. Current Pest Management Facility Map included? In order for the map to be acceptable the

rodent and insect traps must be numbered/identified. NOTE: If more than one facility, a map for each facility 

must be included. Trap locations (at each facility) must also be physically and prominently marked/labeled with 

the applicable trap number in case a trap is inadvertently moved (facility trap location and trap number must 

correlate with trap number and location identified in the facility map).

C. Does the QSP identify the name of the Pest Management Company contracted by the contractor/

supplier and the minimum frequency to check/service the traps (by company personnel and contracted service)?

TOTAL POINTS:

25

100
SECTION IX AUDITOR’S NOTES (justification/comments must be provided for areas/questions found marginally acceptable, 

unacceptable or not addressed)

26
SECTION X

END ITEM INSPECTION AND TESTING

REFERENCE: Contract TDP Section E, MPC Clause, SPC QAP, Specific Product Specifications or Commercial Item Descriptions,

ISO 9001 (4.2.3, 4.2.4, 7.5.3, and 8.2.4) and ANSI/ASQC Z1.4.

Max Points Assigned

GENERAL: The contractor shall establish and maintain documented procedures for end item inspection and 

testing activities to verify that the specified contract requirements for the end item are met. The required 

inspection and testing, and the records to be established, shall be detailed in the QSP.

A. Does the QSP procedures ensure only specified end item requirements/inspection procedures cited in the

contractual item documents/TDP are used during end item inspection? If the inspection procedures and

requirements cited in the product specification are used (there is no need to re-write the inspection/test/sampling

procedure requirements cited in the product document), the contractor may include the following statement (and

omit answering B): “End item inspection and testing will be conducted in strict accordance to the product

specification/CID/contract requirements using the sampling method. No product/samples

will be inspected until the entire lot is completed and the total number of samples needed for an

inspection/test have been selected.”

B. Does the QSP provide clear and complete end item inspection procedures to ensure that the end item/finished

product is inspected in accordance with the sampling plan (inspection level and acceptable quality levels) and

specific inspection/test methods cited in the product document (specification/PCR/CID) and/or as otherwise

indicated in the contract?

C. End item Sample selection and inspection. Only two methods are contractually authorized for

operational rations for sample selection and inspection: Samples can be selected using stationary sampling

(samples are randomly selected after lot is completed) or stratified sampling (samples are selected throughout

the production day using a logical rationale, subcode/time frame/batch, and set aside until the lot is completed).

Under both methods samples shall not be inspected until the entire lot is completed. The method selected must

be clearly identified in the QSP. If stratified sampling is selected, does the QSP clearly indicate rationale used

to select samples and how many samples will be selected at one time?

D. Does the QSP include or reference working instructions and forms used by contractor personnel to ensure all

required information is properly documented and records are maintained?

E. Evidence of product conformance: Does the QSP indicate that a copy of records or related documentation to

substantiate product conformance to the QSP and the contract will be provided to the Government QAR for

review prior to or simultaneously when an end item lot is presented for Government verification inspection?

NOTE: Associated data and documentation shall include all specified inspections and tests conducted by the

contractor: Receipt and in-process/process inspections and tests, analytical tests results (contractor and

Government testing) rework/reinspection results, record of corrective and preventive actions taken at any stage

of the process, end item inspection and testing, etc.

TOTAL POINTS : 100

27
SECTION X AUDITOR’S NOTES (justification/comments must be provided for areas/questions found marginally acceptable, 

unacceptable or not addressed)

28
SECTION XI 

INTERNAL AUDITS

REFERENCE: Contract TDP Section E, MPC Clause, SPC QAP and ISO 9001 (4.2.1, 4.2.3, 4.2.4, and 8.2.2)

Max Points Assigned

GENERAL: The contractor shall establish and maintain documented procedures for planning and 

implementing internal quality audits (to include Food Defense and sanitation) to verify whether 

quality/safety/food defense activities and related results comply with planned arrangements and to determine 

the effectiveness of the system.

AREA 1. AUDIT SCHEDULE (ISO 4.2.1 and 8.2.2):

A. Does the QSP identify the basis or rationale used to schedule each area or activity to be audited

(e.g., by criticality or importance of a specific area or activity that will have a definitive effect on the safety, 

quality or conformance of the end item)? Is the frequency for each area or activity to be audited identified?

B. Does the QSP contain an internal audit schedule and identify the frequency to audit the

complete quality system? (The frequency to audit the complete system to include food defense must not exceed 

the DLA TROOP SUPPORT’s minimum frequency of one year).

C. Does the QSP indicate that a follow-up audit must be conducted to verify the implementation,

compliance, and effectiveness of the corrective action taken when deficiencies are noted by the internal auditor o 

during a DLA Troop Support/GQAR compliance audit (e.g., frequency of internal audits can be based on the 

criticality of the deficiency noted or the importance of a specific area/activity that will have a definite effect

on the safety, quality or conformance of the finished product)?

AREA 2. PERFORMANCE OF INTERNAL QUALITY AUDITS (ISO 8.2.2):

A. Does the QSP identify personnel who will be responsible for the performance of quality audits?

B. Does the QSP indicate that each area or activity audited will be carried out by personnel

independent of those having direct responsibility for the area or activity being audited? NOTE: Follow-up audits 

shall not be conducted by personnel that took or is responsible for taking or implementing a corrective action 

due to a deficiency noted in the initial audit.

AREA 3. DOCUMENTATION AND REPORTING OF AUDIT RESULTS (ISO 4.2.3 and 4.2.4):

A. Does the QSP include or reference the documentation and forms used to record audit results?

B. Does the QSP identify personnel having responsibility for each area or activity to be audited?

C. Does the QSP specify that audit results will be reported to the management personnel having

responsibility for the area or activity audited? Does the QSP also stipulate that these management personnel 

shall also be responsible to take timely corrective action on deficiencies found during the audit (based on the 

criticality of the deficiency and the suspense date provided by the auditor conducting the audit)?

D. Does the QSP describe how management uses audit results during management reviews or

for continuous improvement?

E. Does the QSP identify the guidance or reference document used to develop and perform

internal audits?

r

TOTAL POINTS: 100

 29
SECTION XI AUDITOR’S NOTES (justification/comments must be provided for areas/questions found marginally acceptable, 

unacceptable or not addressed)

30
SECTION XII 

CORRECTIVE AND PREVENTIVE ACTION

REFERENCE: Contract TDP Section E, MPC Clause, SPC QAP, and ISO 9001 (8.5.2 and 8.5.3)

Max Points Assigned

GENERAL: The contractor must include documented procedures for implementing corrective and preventive 

action. Any corrective action or preventive action procedure to be taken to eliminate the causes of actual or 

potential nonconformities (to include food defense/sanitation violations) shall be to a degree appropriate to the 

magnitude of problems and commensurate with the risks encountered. A copy of all corrective and preventive 

actions taken must be filed in the applicable contractor/supplier’s file and provided to the Government QAR 

upon request and/or when an end item lot is submitted for Government verification inspection , as applicable for 

the product, and to DLA Troop Support when a request for reinspection, waiver, deviation or rework is requested

AREA 1. CORRECTIVE ACTION (ISO 8.5.2): The QSP must include documented procedures for the 

following at a minimum:

A. Does the QSP include a procedure for the effective handling of customer complaints and reports

of nonconformance?

B. Does the QSP include a procedure for the investigation of the cause of nonconformance’s

relating to product, process, and quality system, and/or food defense breaches, and recording the results of the 

investigation such as:

1. Corrective and preventive action and failure analysis:

2. How are investigations handled (by one person/team/review board)?

3. Are responsibilities for action addressed for: Inspectors, operators, supervisors and

management?

C. Does the QSP include a procedure for the determination of the corrective action needed

to eliminate the cause of the nonconformance/violation?

D. Does the QSP include a procedure for the application of controls to ensure that corrective

action is taken and is effective?

AREA 2. PREVENTIVE ACTION (ISO 8.5.3): The QSP must include documented procedures for the 

following at a minimum:

A. Does the QSP include a procedure for the use of appropriate sources of information such as

processes and work operations, security/other personnel, which will affect product safety, quality, audit results, 

quality records, and customer complaints to detect, analyze, and eliminate potential causes of 

nonconformance/violations?

B. Does the QSP include a procedure for the determination of the steps needed to deal with problems

/deficiencies requiring preventive action?

C. Does the QSP include a procedure for the initiation of preventive action and application of

controls to ensure that it is effective?

D. Does the QSP include a procedure for the confirmation that relevant information on actions taken

is submitted for management review?

. 

TOTAL POINTS: 100

31
SECTION XII AUDITOR’S NOTES (justification/comments must be provided for areas/questions found marginally acceptable, 

unacceptable or not addressed)

32
SECTION XIII 

IMPROVEMENT

REFERENCE: REFERENCE: Contract TDP Section E (SPC QAP), and ISO 9001 (5.2, 8.2.1,8.4, 8.5 and 8.5.1)

Max Points Assigned

GENERAL: The total cost of quality normally consists of prevention, appraisal, and failure costs of an 

organization (this may also include the cost of Food Defense measures implemented/taken to protect the product 

and facility). The true value of knowing what an organization’s cost of food defense, safety and quality is for the 

most part immeasurable. However, all successful businesses routinely incorporate the function of computing the 

cost of these as one of their main business operations. Computing the cost allows an organization to

properly budget for all necessary activities required by the contract or the contractor’s QSP requirements. 

Additionally, it provides an organization the ability to appropriately allocate the resources required to effect 

continuous improvement in their day-to-day operations that impact the safety and quality of the goods they 

provide to their customers. Contractors may include information concerning their use of cost of quality and food 

defense models in their day-to-day operations to continuously evaluate and improve their quality system, the 

products produced and the protection of products and facility from intentional contamination/tampering.

AREA I. CUSTOMER SATISFACTION (ISO 5.2 and 8.2.1): As one of the measurements of the 

performance of the QSP and the quality system implemented, the supplier shall monitor information relating to 

customer perception as to whether the supplier is meeting or has met customer requirements. The methods for 

obtaining and using information shall be determined. Does the QSP indicates how the supplier determines, 

obtains information, and measures customer satisfaction and compliance to customer requirements?

AREA 2. IMPROVEMENT (ISO 8.5):

A. Continual improvement (ISO 8.4 and 8.5.1): The supplier shall continually improve the

effectiveness of the QSP and the system implemented through the use of the quality policy, quality objectives, 

internal and external audit results, analysis of data, corrective and preventive actions, customer feedback, and 

management reviews.

1. Management reviews: Does the QSP indicate how management reviews are used for continual

improvement?

2. Top management support: Does the QSP indicate that full support will be provided to the

internal auditor and the manager who is responsible for reviewing the quality system and the food defense to 

ensure its continuing suitability and effectiveness in satisfying the requirements of the quality standard selected, 

the supplier's stated quality policy and objectives, and the requirements of DLA Troop Support contracts? 

Although teamwork and cooperation is emphasized, to avoid conflicting priorities quality personnel should not 

be placed under the direct supervision of production personnel.

B. The cost of quality:

1. Does the QSP identify how the cost of quality is computed? Suppliers can include information

concerning their use of cost of quality models in their day-to-day operations to continuously evaluate and 

improve their quality system, indicate their active participation in the Government Value Engineering Change 

Proposal Program (VECP), the DLA Troop Support-FTSB’ Quality Improvement Initiate Report Program,

or other continuous improvement programs, etc.

2. Does the QSP identify how the failure cost (rework, scrap rate, reinspections, retesting, etc.) is

computed?

TOTAL POINTS: 100

33
SECTION XIII AUDITOR’S NOTES (justification/comments must be provided for areas/questions found marginally 

acceptable, unacceptable or not addressed)

34
REFERENCES

ANSI/ISO/ASQC A3, Quality Systems Terminology. Milwaukee, WI: American Society of Quality Control.

ANSI/ASQC Q10011-1, Q10011-2, and Q10011-3, Guidelines for Auditing Quality Systems. Milwaukee, WI: American Society of 

 Quality Control.

ANSI Z1.1, Z1.2, AND Z1.3/ASQC B1, B2, and B3 American National Standard: Guide for Quality Control Charts, Control Chart 

 Method of Analyzing Data, and Control Chart Method of Controlling Quality during Production. Milwaukee, WI: American 

Society of Quality Control.

ANSI/ASQC Z1.4, American National Standard: Sampling Procedures and Tables for Inspection by Attributes. Milwaukee, WI: 

 American Society of Quality Control.

ASTM D 5118/D5118M-95 Standard Practice for Fabrication of Fiberboard Shipping Boxes.

ASTM 1974 Standard Practice for Methods of Closing, Sealing, reinforcing Fiberboard Shipping Boxes.

Food and Drug Administration: Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA-Pub. L. 111-353); 

 CFR Title 21, Chapter 1, PART 117 Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, Risk Based Preventive Controls 

 for Human Food. 

CFR Title 21, PART 113, (FDA Thermally Processed Low-Acid Foods Packaged in Hermetically Sealed Containers (LACF) 

 CFR Title 21, Part 121 Mitigation Strategies to Protect Food against Intentional Adulteration (IA regulation). 

CFR Title 9 USDA FSIS Canning Regulations and Canned Products PART 318 Subpart G (meat)/ Part 381 Subpart X (poultry)

 (Poultry/meat are essentially identical).

Contract Technical Data Packages

DLAR MPC CLAUSE 52-246-9001- Manufacturing Process Controls and In-Process Inspections 

DLA TROOP SUPPORT Statistical Process Control Quality Assurance Provision

DLA TROOP SUPPORT FORM 3507 Unit Loads: Preparation of Semi-perishable Subsistence Items.

DLA TROOP SUPPORT FORM 3556: Markings: Instructions for Shipping Cases, Sacks, and Palletized/Containerized Loads of 

 Perishable and Semi-Perishable Subsistence.

ISO 8402, Quality Management and Quality Assurance: Vocabulary. Geneva, Switzerland: International Organization for 

 Standardization. Milwaukee, WI: American Society of Quality Control.

ISO/ANSI/ASQC 9000, Quality Management and Quality Assurance Standards: Guideline for Selection and Use.

ISO 10012-1, Quality Assurance Requirements: Measuring Equipment. Milwaukee, WI: American Society of Quality Control. 

ISO/ANSI/ASQC Q9001: 2000, Quality Management Systems - Requirements. Milwaukee, WI: American Society of Quality

 Control.

35
APPENDIX A

QSP SUMMARY RATING SHEET

36
Quality Systems Plan (QSP) SUMMARY RATING SHEET

GENERAL: After each section has been evaluated an overall evaluation of that section should be completed and a rating 

assigned (acceptable, marginal, or unacceptable). After all sections are evaluated an overall rating should be assigned to the 

QSP. An overall unacceptable rating to a section will deem the QSP unacceptable. Some subjectivity in developing an overall 

evaluation is inevitable. However, concise detailed statements should be included to substantiate the overall rating assigned to 

the QSP, specifically if a marginal or unacceptable rating is assigned. Professional expertise and judgment must be exercised 

to provide an accurate and objective evaluation. Every area of the QSP does not have to be acceptable for the section to be 

considered acceptable or marginal. Likewise, one area scored unacceptable does not necessarily means that the entire section 

or plan is unacceptable. The percentage of areas acceptable, marginal, and unacceptable should be computed for each section. 

The importance of each area or question within each section will determine the points assigned to each area or question. If 

clarification is needed concerning an area or section and in the evaluator’s opinion the contractor can provide this information 

over the telephone (if no written modification to the QSP is necessary), the contractor should be contacted. If any section of 

the QSP is rated marginal, the evaluator must request that the section/area rated marginal be revised. A suspense date of 30 

calendar days should be allocated for the contractor to revise the areas/sections rated marginal. The evaluator should continue 

working with the contractor until all sections of the QSP are rated acceptable.

AREA 1 COMPUTATION OF SECTION AND QSP RATING: An overall rating of unacceptable to a section will result 

in an unacceptable QSP rating. The maximum point assigned to each section is 100. The maximum points assigned to the 

QSP are 1300.

SECTION QSP

ACCEPTABLE 90> ACCEPTABLE 1170>

MARGINAL 80> MARGINAL 1040>

UNACCEPTABLE 80< UNACCEPTABLE 1040<

MAXIMUM POINTS POINTS ASSIGNED RATING

SECTION I 100

SECTION II 100

SECTION III 100

SECTION IV 100

SECTION V 100

SECTION VI 100

SECTION VII 100

SECTION VIII 100

SECTION IX 100

SECTION X 100

SECTION XI 100

SECTION XII 100

SECTION XIII 100

TOTAL POINTS 1300 TOTAL POINTS ASSIGNED: QSP RATING:

AREA 2 EVALUATOR’S COMMENTS/JUSTIFICATION FOR ASSIGNED RATING: Comments must be provided

for each section, area or question rated unacceptable or marginally acceptable to allow the contractor the opportunity to 

improve the QSP.

37
APPENDIX B

FOOD DEFENSE CHECKLIST

38
FOOD DEFENSE PLAN (FDP) SUMMARY RATING SHEET

GENERAL: The Food Defense Evaluation is a risk based assessment. The evaluator must have a firm understanding of the 

type of facility and the product produced/stored/assembled at the facility. The contamination risks to the various products will 

vary greatly dependent on these two factors. Currently, all DLA Troop Support Subsistence contracts have a requirement

for the submission and implementation of some type of Food Defense at each contractor facility. Utilizing the current Food 

Defense Checklist, an overall rating will be assigned (acceptable, marginally acceptable, or unacceptable). There are nine 

elements that correlate with the Food Defense Checklist. The maximum points assigned to the FDP are 100 points. The 

elements must all be rated acceptable for the Food Defense Plan (FDP) to receive an acceptable rating. In the event an element 

is rated unacceptable the highest rating that the plan can receive is marginally acceptable.

FACILITY TYPE: Operational Rations / Subsistence Prime Vendor / Produce / Other

PRODUCTS PRODUCED/PACKAGED/ASSEMBLED/STORED:

COMPUTATION OF SECTION AND FOOD DEFENSE PLAN (FDP) RATING: The maximum points assigned to the 

FDP are 100.

FDP

ACCEPTABLE 90>

MARGINALLY 89-85

UNACCEPTABLE 85<

Maximum Total Points: 100 Total Points Assigned: FDP Rating: A / M / U

39