Which organization has authority to stop work?

• A. External contractors
• B. Public relations team
• C. QA and QC inspectors
• D. Plant security

Answer: (C)

In a plant safety and quality program, those who verify that procedures and workmanship meet standards have the authority to stop work when risks are found. QA and QC inspectors monitor compliance with specifications, permits, and safety controls, and they’re trained to halt activities immediately if they detect unsafe practices, missing precautions, or defects. This immediate stop helps prevent accidents, injuries, or faulty work from progressing and ensures corrective actions are taken before work resumes.

External contractors perform tasks but don’t typically have the authority to suspend all ongoing work across the site; the public relations team focuses on communications, not safety or quality enforcement; plant security handles access and site protection. The inspectors’ role specifically centers on ensuring safety and quality, making them the group empowered to stop work when standards aren’t being met.