Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA)

Correct Answer: Focus on failure modes with the highest occurrence probability first

In FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis), when multiple failure modes have identical severity ratings, the most effective approach is to focus on the failure modes with the highest occurrence probability first. This is because: Risk Priority Number (RPN) in FMEA = Severity × Occurrence × Detection When severity is equal among failure modes, the occurrence probability becomes the key differentiator for prioritization. This allows organizations to address the most likely failures first, maximizing the effectiveness of risk reduction efforts. The other options are less effective because: Economic impact evaluation may not capture the true risk potential and could lead to overlooking critical failures that have high occurrence rates but moderate costs. Relying solely on historical frequency may not account for changes in processes or new risk factors. Analyzing correlations between failure modes, while valuable, is a secondary consideration when prioritizing individual failure modes with equal severity.

Correct Answer: The multiplication of severity scores across linked failure scenarios

The multiplication of severity scores across linked failure scenarios is the most accurate reflection of how multiple failure modes interact in FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis). This approach is correct because: 1. It considers the compounding effect of multiple failures occurring together 2. Multiplication better represents the amplifying nature of concurrent failures 3. It aligns with risk assessment principles where combined risks multiply rather than add Other options are incorrect because: - Simply summing RPNs misses the interaction effects between failure modes - Counting the total number of effects does not capture the severity or probability aspects - Using average occurrence ratings dilutes the true impact of multiple concurrent failures The multiplication method provides the most comprehensive view of systemic risks and their interactions, making it the most suitable criterion for evaluating multiple failure mode scenarios in FMEA.

Correct Answer: Through ongoing risk assessment metrics and periodic effectiveness evaluations

The best approach for tracking corrective actions in FMEA methodology is through ongoing risk assessment metrics and periodic effectiveness evaluations. Here's why: Strengths of the correct answer: - Provides continuous monitoring of risk levels - Enables timely assessment of corrective action effectiveness - Allows for adaptive response to changing conditions - Aligns with FMEA's iterative nature - Combines both measurement (metrics) and evaluation aspects Why other options are less optimal: Maintaining extensive documentation of changes focuses too heavily on record-keeping rather than active monitoring and assessment. Tracking historical failure records and severity ratings is reactive rather than proactive and may miss emerging risks or improvements. Quarterly reviews are too infrequent for effective FMEA monitoring - risks and corrective actions need more regular assessment to ensure effectiveness.