Checking Aids are special tools, gauges, fixtures, or devices used to inspect, measure, or verify product conformity where standard measuring equipment is not sufficient.
When Checking Aids are used, they must be fully documented and included in the PPAP submission to demonstrate that inspection methods are reliable, controlled, and traceable.
What should be included
The Checking Aids section should contain documentation for all special inspection tools, including:
- Photographs of each checking aid in use
- Drawings or specifications defining the tool
- Identification numbers and revision status
- Dimensional or verification reports confirming accuracy
Where applicable, the PPAP submission must also include:
- Calibration records
- Measurement uncertainty or capability information
- Maintenance or inspection requirements
Purpose of Checking Aids in PPAP
Checking Aids ensure that:
- Complex or non-standard characteristics can be measured accurately
- Inspection results are repeatable and consistent
- Operators have reliable tools to verify conformity
These tools often support critical or special characteristics identified in the Control Plan.
Alignment with other PPAP elements
Checking Aids must align with:
- MSA studies, confirming the aid is capable
- The Control Plan, where the checking aid is referenced
- Dimensional Results, supported by verification data
Any checking aid used in production or inspection must be traceable within the PPAP documentation.
Key considerations
- All checking aids must be calibrated and controlled
- Calibration status must be current and traceable
- Any changes to checking aids require review and revalidation
- Customer-specific requirements for checking aids must be met
Properly documented Checking Aids provide confidence that inspection methods support ongoing product conformity.