The Inspector Standardization program provides inspectors with online learning tools, which when used in combination with hands-on-training, will help inspectors properly grade market samples and improve inspection consistency nationwide. Inspector Standardization content consists of Visual Reference Images and Inspector Calibration Trainers.

Visual Reference Images (VRI) are used to ensure consistent and uniform application of grading lines and illustrate types of damage in conjunction with written descriptions. The visual grading aids system represents the foundation for the national inspection system's subjective quality control program, providing an effective management tool for aligning inspectors and assisting them in making proper and consistent subjective grading decisions. The system consists of a series of commodity specific VRI and descriptive text which, with regular use, controls and diminishes the impact of ordinary perceptional differences.

*If you would prefer accessing the Interpretive Lines as GIPSA web site content, please click on the link below:

Inspector Calibration Trainers are used to help the inspector fine tune their implementation of the VRI and other subjects such as grain classification. Inspector Calibration trainers generally present the inspector with a series of kernel images which test the inspector's ability to apply a factor definition.

Last updated 2/28/2008