What does the acceptable quality limit (AQL) refer to?

Acceptable Quality Limit (AQL) defines the maximum allowable defect rate in a production lot. This concept is crucial in quality control, particularly in manufacturing and sampling inspections. AQL represents the threshold at which a batch of products is considered acceptable in terms of quality. If the defect rate in a sampled lot is below this limit, the lot can be accepted as meeting quality standards; if it exceeds the AQL, the lot is typically rejected.

The AQL helps suppliers and manufacturers determine acceptable levels of quality and make informed decisions regarding inspection and acceptance of products. It is instrumental in balancing the costs of inspection with the risks of accepting defective products.

While it's essential to understand the various choices, this highlights the importance of AQL in quality management processes, ensuring that production consistently meets customer and regulatory expectations.