Who holds responsibility for product defects as the product moves along the production line?

The responsibility for product defects as a product moves along the production line is shared by everyone in the supply chain. This collective responsibility is crucial because each party contributes to various stages of production, handling, and distribution, impacting the overall safety and quality of the product.

Manufacturers are responsible for creating products that meet safety standards and specifications. However, as the product moves through the supply chain, shippers handle transportation and storage, which can introduce risks if not managed correctly. Retailers also play a role as they are responsible for ensuring that the products sold to consumers meet safety expectations and are not defective when they reach the customer.

Moreover, regulations often require companies to ensure quality control at each stage, which reinforces the idea that all entities in the supply chain must actively participate in maintaining product safety. For these reasons, the correct answer is that everyone in the supply chain holds responsibility for product defects.