Fundamentals of Acceptance Sampling

Acceptance Sampling is a statistical procedure used in quality control. Acceptance sampling involves testing a batch of sample to determine if the proportion of units having a particular attribute exceeds a given percentage. 
The sampling plan involves three determinations: 
  1. Batch size; 
  2. Sample size; and 
  3. Maximum number of defects that can be uncovered before rejection of the entire batch.

This technique permits acceptance or rejection of a batch of products under precisely specified circumstances, thereby ensuring that the auditor does not reject too many acceptable batches. 

Acceptance sampling method allows the Inspector continuous control on the quality of products. From acceptance sampling tables, one can select a sampling plan to assure that errors will not be greater than a specified percentage of the batch (tolerable error rate), provided a full check of rejected batches is made.