A Nonconforming Output Was Found. What Happens Next?
A part fails inspection. A service does not meet the agreed requirements. Or a customer reports a problem after delivery. The first instinct may be to fix it and move on. But before anything is used, delivered, or released again, someone needs to control the affected output and decide what happens to it. Here is the process at a glance: 1. Detect the nonconformity A nonconforming output can be found during incoming inspection, while work is underway, at final release, or after delivery. Everyone should know how to report one—and feel comfortable doing so promptly. 2. Contain the affected output Remove it from the normal flow so it cannot be used or delivered by mistake. A physical item might go on a designated hold shelf with a HOLD tag. A service that cannot be set aside may need to be suspended or contained. 3. Decide what happens to it An authorized person determines the appropriate action. Depending on the situation, that could mean correction, continued segregation, r...
