Question
I would like to confirm if ASQ Z1.4-2008 attribute tables are calculated based on 95% confidence level? I am using Table II-A, on page 11.
Answer
ANSI/ASQ Z1.4 tables are not technically calculated based on a 95% confidence level. The technical definition of AQL is the quality level that is the worst tolerable process average when a continuing series of lots is submitted for acceptance sampling. Some interpret it to mean if a lot has AQL percent defective or less, a lot would have a high probability of being accepted based on the sampling plan. The standard does not specify the probability of acceptance explicitly. The operating characteristic curve (OC Curve and the tables define the AQL as the percent defective that has a 95% probability of acceptance. So though it is not a 95% confidence level, it is a 95% probability of acceptance.
For more information on this topic, please visit ASQ’s website.