Certified Production & Operations Manager (POM) Practice Exam

What occurs in a type II error within the context of quality control?

1. A bad lot is accepted

2. A good lot is rejected

3. No action is taken

4. Data is incorrectly analyzed

The correct answer is: A bad lot is accepted

In the context of quality control, a type II error refers to the situation where a good lot is incorrectly accepted. This occurs when the quality of a lot being tested meets the defined acceptance criteria, but in reality, it doesn't. In other words, the testing system fails to detect a defect when it is present, allowing subpar products to pass through the quality control process. Choosing the option that states a bad lot is accepted aligns perfectly with the definition of a type II error. This is a critical concern in quality control processes since it can lead to defective products reaching customers, potentially resulting in dissatisfaction, damage to a brand's reputation, or increased costs due to returns and warranty claims. Understanding this concept is vital for quality control professionals to minimize risks associated with product acceptance.