One of the first steps in process monitoring is to keep accurate records. The process record should include every factor that may affect the process, including developer temperature, amount of film processed, amount of replenisher added, the person who processed the film or control strip, and the time of processing. By using a processing record form, you can establish and maintain proper replenishment rates and monitor the processing variables that affect processing quality. When control strips indicate that the process is, or is going, out of control, some potential causes can be eliminated by checking the processing record. This often makes it possible for you to determine the source of the problem. Also, when workers maintain processing records, they have an added incentive to follow prescribed processing procedures more carefully.

In any quality assurance program, it is always easier to prevent problems than to correct them after they occur. When you take the following steps, problems in processing can be reduced or eliminated: Store chemicals as recommended by the manufacturer.

Observe effective working and shelf lives of chemicals. Remember, most chemicals change in photographic qualities due to age, both on the shelf before mixing and as working solutions.

Make sure mixing, storage, and processing equipment is constructed of materials that are not affected by photographic chemicals or solutions.

Use the purest water possible to prepare solutions and to wash materials.

Filter water when necessary.

Label all solution storage and processing tanks.

0 Avoid solution contamination.

Check the volumes of replenisher tanks and processing tanks.

Check the accuracy of measuring instruments.

Follow prescribed chemical-mixing procedures.

Protect solutions with floating lids and/or dust covers.

Use only proper film and processing techniques.

Use recommended replenishment rates.

Use recommended processing times.

Use recommended processing temperatures.

Use correct agitation.

Use proper washing procedures.

Dry film correctly.

When a control strip or sensi-strip is processed and evaluated at the end of the workday, or shift, you can take immediate steps to correct any problems to avoid delays at the beginning of the next work period.