Coating Inspection Results: Track False Alarms as Well as Missed Defects

The key distinction

A single overall agreement rate can hide the type of error that matters most. Define the reference and defect criteria before comparing inspectors or methods, and preserve cases where the reference remains uncertain.

Practical checks

1. Identify the reference decision process.
2. Count correctly accepted, correctly rejected and both error types.
3. Review the practical consequences of each error separately.

Example

Illustrative example: a method catches nearly every known defect but rejects many acceptable packs. That may require a different improvement from a method that rarely rejects anything and misses important defects.

Scope and limits

Do not label an inspector's disagreement as error without a justified reference. This guide does not prescribe an acceptance system or automate a product-release decision.

Related guidance

• Coating Abrasion Tests: Track the Abrasive as a Test Variable
• Missing Follow-Up Visits in Coating Trials: Do Not Count Unknown Results as Passes
• Weathering Reference Samples: Benchmark the Test as Well as the Product
• Coating Area on Cylindrical Metal: Use Circumference, Not Projected Width

Ask NANOLAB about the exact product and intended use. Use the current product documentation for formulation-specific instructions.