What should you do first after discovering a quality control (QC) document is missing?

The appropriate first step after discovering that a quality control document is missing is to conduct an initial search. This action is critical because it allows you to verify if the document has been misplaced within the immediate area or perhaps overlooked in a different location. By searching for the document, you may be able to locate it without escalating the situation unnecessarily. This approach is practical as it demonstrates initiative and problem-solving skills before involving others or taking additional steps, such as notifying a supervisor or filing a report.

Conducting an initial search equips you with information about the document’s whereabouts which is essential for any subsequent actions. If the document is still unaccounted for after this search, you can then proceed to notify a supervisor, file a report, or review previous documents with a clearer understanding of the situation.