8.5.3 Preventative Action
Purpose
To document the actions necessary to eliminate the causes of potential nonconformities in order to prevent their occurrence. Preventive actions are implemented as appropriate, considering the effects
of the potential problems.
Procedure
- [enter-your-company-name-here] has established procedures that identify the causes of potential nonconformities and methods by which these may be prevented.
- During the planning stage of product realisation, a thorough study of potential non-conformances is conducted. The study will include an examination of the root causes, evaluation of the possibility that the non-conformance will occur and the collateral effect on other processes.
- From the results of the study of potential non-conformances, an evaluation of the need for preventative action will be made. Following this evaluation, any actions that are determined necessary will be implemented.
- All evaluation results and actions taken to eliminate or mitigate the non-conformances are communicated to all relevant parties, recorded and stored in accordance with the procedure 4.2.4 – Control of records
- The effectiveness of preventative actions are reviewed on a regular basis, every three (3) months or as deemed necessary by top management. During the first days, months, of product realisation the frequency of review shall be increased as deemed necessary by top management in order to ensure effective control.
- When a potential non-conformance is detected, additional work instructions, training and checklists are developed to prevent the occurrence.
- [enter-your-company-name-here] regularly conducts customer surveys to gain feedback that assist with the development of preventative action plans.
- [enter-your-company-name-here] encourages its staff to keep up-to-date with industry changes, changes to regulations and codes of practice, new procedures, new materials and products etc. which will have a positive effect on its ability to detect potential non-conformances and prevent these from occurring.