Level 4 Observation

A narrator explains that quality control is an important part of Marcia's job as an operator at the A-1 Plastics Plant. The plant produces molded buckets for use by a variety of businesses and industries.

Marcia picks up a bucket that has just dropped out of the mold and begins to explain what she looks at on each bucket. The camera zooms in and focuses on the parts of the bucket as Marcia goes through the inspection process.

Marcia first inspects the bucket's upper edge. She runs her hand around the top of the bucket to be sure the rim is there, and that it is of consistent size. She looks at the ears on the handle holes to make sure that they are complete.

Next Marcia checks the sprue, the small bump in the center bottom of the bucket, by holding the bucket up to the light. The sprue should be firm (not droopy), and thick enough that no light passes through it. Marcia is careful not to touch the sprue because it might still be hot enough to burn her hand.

Marcia checks the surfaces of the bucket, looking for bubbles and dark spots. Then she compares the bucket against a color sample to be sure it matches.

Because the bucket has passed inspection, Marcia inserts the handle while the bucket is still warm. She is now ready to look at the next bucket.