Quality Control Assessment in a Bottled Water Production Plant in Rivers State

This study evaluates quality control practices at a bottled water production plant in Rivers State, South South Nigeria, focusing on adherence to the standards prescribed by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control. The bottled water industry in Nigeria has expanded significantly over the past decade due to rising urban population and concerns about public water safety, making rigorous quality assurance a matter of public health importance. Using a descriptive case study approach, this research documents the quality control procedures currently in place, including incoming water source testing, in-process checks, and finished product inspection. Data were gathered through structured observation, review of production records, and interviews with quality assurance personnel over a ten-week fieldwork period. Statistical Process Control charts, particularly X-bar and R-charts, were applied to assess process stability across three key parameters: pH level, turbidity, and total dissolved solids. Findings reveal that the production process is generally within control limits but exhibits occasional out-of-control signals during shift changeovers, attributed to inconsistent operator calibration practices. Recommendations focus on standardising calibration protocols, introducing control chart training for production staff, and strengthening supplier evaluation for packaging materials. This research underscores the necessity of embedding statistical quality tools into routine production management within Nigerian manufacturing contexts. Keywords: quality control, statistical process control, bottled water, Rivers State, NAFDAC