In case of conflict between contract specifications and shop practice, which should normally apply?

• A. Shop practice.
• B. Contract specifications normally apply.
• C. A negotiated compromise.
• D. Customer preferences.

Answer: (B)

Contract specifications set the agreed-upon requirements that the product and process must meet. They define acceptance criteria, tolerances, tests, and other terms the customer and supplier have legally agreed to. Shop practice describes how work is done day to day, but it cannot override what was contractually required. When a conflict arises, the contract specifications take precedence because they represent the binding agreement and the basis for evaluation and acceptance. Any deviation from the contract should be handled through formal change control or change orders to keep the agreement valid. Customer preferences or informal negotiations aren’t binding unless they’re formally approved and incorporated into the contract. So, contract specifications normally apply.