Root Cause Analysis

Root Cause Analysis – how we interpret the data to find the real cause

 As any good lead auditor will tell you clause 10.2 of Annex SL, the template for modern ISO management system standards sets out the process for handling nonconformities.

Sandwiched between correction and corrective action (preventative action is captured in 6.1, risk and opportunity, for those that thought it might have been relevant here) is the requirement to determine the cause of the nonconformity.

If we’re to eliminate the cause of a nonconformity then we need to investigate further.

Tools available include the simple and effective 5 Why’s – asking why it happened five times will bring you closer to the root cause of any nonconformity be it a fault, accident or incident.

There are of course many alternatives sometimes prescribed in operational procedures by organisations, varying in complexity.

Root cause analysis tools are essential for identifying the underlying reasons for problems, failures, and inefficiencies. Here are some widely used tools and techniques:

• Five Whys: This simple method involves asking “why” multiple times (typically five) to drill down to the root cause of a problem.
• Pareto Chart: Based on the Pareto Principle, this chart helps identify the most significant factors in a set of data, showing that 80% of problems often stem from 20% of causes.
• Fishbone Diagram (Ishikawa): This visual tool helps teams categorise potential causes of problems and study their interrelationships. It resembles a fishbone, with the problem at the head and causes branching off the spine.
• Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA): A proactive method that helps teams identify where and how a process might fail, allowing them to rectify issues before they turn into failures.
• Fault Tree Analysis (FTA): A graphical tool that uses logic diagrams to map out the pathways leading to a failure or problem.

These tools can be incredibly effective in helping teams systematically identify and address the root causes of issues, leading to more sustainable solutions and improvements. To find out more about root cause analysis why not consider an auditor training course. From ISO 9001 quality to ISO 45001 Health & Safety Management, root cause analysis plays a crucial role in your management system and any investigations you perform relating to incidents and non-conformities.

For fresh thinking and support in all things ISO please contact us here at QCS International. We love a challenge ,we love thinking creatively and we delight in working with our clients in all things management system related.

QCS International are a CQI IRCA Approved Training Partner based in the United Kingdom.