Failure Mode Effects Analysis (FMEA)

by | Feb 9, 2016 | blog

FMEA With the advent of ISO 9001:2015 quality management system and ISO 14001:2015 environment system revisions and their introduction of Risk based thinking into these disciplines the need to identify a suitable Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment tool is necessary. One of the many methods to perform this thinking can be through the use of […]

FMEA

With the advent of ISO 9001:2015 quality management system and ISO 14001:2015 environment system revisions and their introduction of Risk based thinking into these disciplines the need to identify a suitable Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment tool is necessary.

One of the many methods to perform this thinking can be through the use of FMEA methodology. So here are some of the reasons for implementing an FMEA:

It is a logical technique used to identify and eliminate causes of failure (Risks). It uses a sequential and disciplined approach to establish the modes (kinds) of failure and the effects (results) of that failure. It can be used on product, devices (machines, tools, instruments), systems, services and processes. Through these techniques Risks can be established which are ranked in order of their importance.

One of the main objectives of any organisation is to produce a product or service “Right the first time” so to assist with this the FMEA process identifies any inadequacies in the development of the product, service or process. Tests and trials can be limited to a few products. Legal or other compliance details may be added to the mix and of course Continuous improvement is maintained. The FMEA approach is one of Risk mitigation and not correction therefore is proactive and not reactive. A great spinoff of this approach is that it facilitates Team Building as, to reap the benefits, it should to be performed by a “cross functional team”.

FMEA provides the potential for reducing:

  • The likelihood of design changes (When Design FMEA is used)
  • Maintenance and warranty costs
  • The possibility of safety failures
  • The possibility of impacts to the environment
  • The possibility of extended life or reliability failures
  • The likelihood of product liability claims
  • The likelihood of customer complaints

Benefits of the application of FMEA include:

  • The identifying of potential and known failures and the identifying of the cause and effect of the failure mode (type)
  • It identifies the Risk and Opportunity factors so checks positive and negative decisions
  • Includes follow-up actions necessary and also provides the necessary documented evidence needed by customers and management systems
  • Provides a location for clear accountabilities
  • Facilitates reviews, continuous improvement exercises and validation & verification

For further information visit us on www.thornesystems.co.za or contact Steve on his Mobile number 083 271 8622