Explain the difference between a non-conformance and a finding in inspection reporting.

• A. A finding is a general observation, while a non-conformance is a documented failure.
• B. A non-conformance is a failure to meet a standard; a finding is the documented result of that nonconformance requiring action.
• C. A finding is a minor issue; a non-conformance is severe.
• D. Both mean the same thing.

Answer: (B)

In inspection reporting, the actual issue is a non-conformance—the failure to meet a required standard or regulation. The finding is the formal, written record of that issue in the report, describing what was found, which standard was violated, and what corrective action is required. So the non-conformance identifies the deficiency itself, while the finding communicates it to the facility and assigns the action needed to bring the condition back into compliance. This is why the best statement is that a non-conformance is the failure to meet a standard, and a finding is the documented result of that nonconformance requiring action.