inspektion

Inspektion is the act of examining an object, system, or process to determine its condition, performance, and compliance with specified requirements. The term, used in German and many other languages, corresponds to the English word “inspection.” An inspector or inspection team conducts the process, which may be performed by internal staff, external regulators, or independent auditors. Inspections can be scheduled regularly or triggered by a complaint, incident, or risk assessment.

Inspections occur across many fields. In manufacturing and quality assurance, inspections check materials, components, and finished products for dimensions, defects, and conformance to standards. In construction and infrastructure, building and safety inspections verify code compliance before use. In transportation, vehicle inspections assess roadworthiness and emissions. In services such as food, healthcare, and public administration, inspections evaluate compliance with hygiene, safety, and regulatory requirements. In software development, formal inspections review designs and code to identify defects early.

Methods typically include planning, the use of checklists and standards, visual examination, measurements, functional testing, sampling, and documentation review. Findings are recorded in inspection reports; non-conformities may lead to corrective actions, quality certifications, recalls, or license suspensions.

Outcomes aim to reduce risk and improve reliability. The exact scope and authority of an inspection depend on context, governing laws, and professional standards. The term “Inspektion” can also refer to the organizational unit responsible for performing inspections or to the act itself within various institutions.