By Marcela Tainã
Before we talk about the quality sector, we must understand the environment in which we are. That is, where we want to implement Qa and Qc. Geotechnical data is the data that describes the physical and mechanical behavior of soils, rocks, and masses.
We include data from monitoring and construction controls in the geotechnical data group. So, we are talking about generating data that guides the definition analysis of means and control of structures.
Thus, for the implementation of Qa, we must analyze the importance of geotechnical data in the analysis and control of structures, including information on the physical and mechanical behavior of soils, rocks, and masses, as well as monitoring and construction control data, so that risks and processes can be defined in each situation.
Definition of data quality and data control
Having understood the sector in which we want to implement Qa and Qc, we will move on to the question of what quality is.
Qa (Quality Assurance) is related to the ability of data to meet users’ needs and expectations regarding their accuracy, integrity, consistency, and relevance.
On the other hand, Qc (Quality Control) is the process of ensuring that data is accurate, complete, and up-to-date, as well as protected against loss, theft, or corruption. Both are fundamental to ensuring that data is reliable and usable for decision-making.
The importance of creating a quality department
Armand V. Feigenbaum in 1951, in his book Quality Control, brilliantly points out that:
“Quality, which was everyone’s job, ended up being nobody’s job.”
The author defends the idea that a department should be created within the company that exclusively cares for quality that should follow four steps:
- Standardize: Establish and define standards for both cost and performance of a product;
- Evaluate: Compare product performance with established standards;
- Act: When necessary, corrective action should be taken when standards are violated;
- Plan: Improve and make efforts to maximize both cost and performance standards.
Given the maximum technical, economic, and social relevance of geotechnical data, it is essential that there is a sector responsible for generating, treating, storing, and making data available.
The implementation of Qa/Qc is essential to guarantee the reliability of this data, which is used for important decision-making in the geotechnical field.
Free Online QA/QC Applied Course
The applied QAQC course is an excellent opportunity for professionals who want to develop their skills in data quality management.
Moreover, the course offers a bold approach that transforms control into a dynamic and effective activity, ensuring the quality of the project as a whole.
Some of the specific solutions discussed during the course include implementing good sampling practices, verifying the accuracy of measurement instruments, and validating results.
Upon completion of the course, participants will have a 360 view of QaQC and will begin their training to face the challenges of quality management in mining projects and contribute significantly to the success of ventures.
Who is this course for?
This course was developed with a focus on the specific needs and demands of three main groups of professionals in the field:
- Managers (Those who must prove that their actions are indeed generating savings and results that demonstrate the resources invested);
- Geologists, mining engineers, and chemists;
- Database technicians and chemical and physical preparation laboratory technicians.
We hope this course can provide the tools, best practices, and skills necessary for all participants to achieve significant results in their respective jobs, as well as a broad and in-depth understanding of the importance of Qa/Qc in the geotechnical field.
Responsible for the learning process
Marcela Tainã is a member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists AIG. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Geology from USP and specializes in Sampling, QA/QC, and Resource Evaluation.
She has participated as a CP/QP and in the implementation of QA/QC programs for projects of major national players. In addition, she has extensive experience in geological modeling and geometallurgy.
Click on the link below to learn more about the Qa/Qc course and how it can boost your career in the geotechnical field:
