What is the role of source inspectors (SIs)?

Source inspectors (SIs) play a pivotal role in quality assurance by ensuring that the manufacturer's or fabricator's quality processes are not only in place but also functioning as intended. They are responsible for verifying that each critical inspection step—such as material inspections, process checks, and final product validations—has been completed successfully and adheres to the required standards. This verification process is vital in maintaining the integrity of the supply chain and ensuring that the products meet the specifications set forth in contracts and industry standards.

In contrast, negotiating contracts, designing inspection tools, or planning logistics are tasks that fall outside the primary responsibilities of source inspectors. While these activities are important in their own right, they do not directly pertain to the core functions of quality verification and inspection that SIs are specifically trained to perform. Their main focus remains on oversight and validation to ensure compliance and quality in production processes.