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Quality management systems are built on the premise of continuous improvement. Corrective and
preventive action (CAPA) programs are part of improvement efforts, along with auditing, data
analysis and reviews. Even though many companies are doing corrective and preventive action
systems together, these entities are meant to address problems at different stages for effective
quality management.
Namely, corrective actions address problems that have already occurred; while preventive actions
are designed to prevent problems. Although the focus is different, both actions are necessary and
hold plenty of value such that problems or potential problems are identified, investigated and can be
resolved.
Corrective Actions
A corrective action is a reaction to a problem that has already occurred. It assumes that a
nonconformance (Non fulfillment of a requirement) or problem exists and has been reported by either
internal or external sources. Non conformance means non fulfillment of a requirement.
The actions initiated are intended to: a) fix the problem and b) modify the quality system so that
the process that caused it is monitored to prevent a reoccurrence. The documentation for a
corrective action provides evidence that the problem was recognized, corrected, and proper
A preventive action is initiated to stop a potential problem from occurring. It assumes that
adequate monitoring and controls are in place in the quality system to assure that potential
problems are identified and eliminated before they happen. If something in the quality system
indicates that a possible problem is or may develop, a preventive action must be implemented to
avert and then eliminate the potential situation. The documentation for a preventive action
provides evidence that an effective quality system has been implemented that is able to
• Review the actions taken and the effectiveness in preventing the problem.
The process used for corrective actions and preventive actions is very similar . However, it is
important to understand the differences and also be aware of the implications involved in performing
and documenting each.
For corrective action programs, the documented procedures should include:
How non-conformances within the quality system are identified
How corrective actions are initiated
Acceptable methods for discovering root causes
How to determine and implement solutions
How to follow-up and evaluate solution effectiveness
How to document and record corrective actions from start to finish
For preventive action programs, the procedures are similar, but also make sure
the documentation includes guidance on:
How to identify potential nonconformities and trends within the quality system using
available data
How and when to take action to prevent a problem or non-conformance from developing
How to document and record preventive actions and solution follow-up
These are the documenting procedure involved in corrective and preventive actions...
We already discussed about the process involved in corrective and preventive actions and also the
procedures included in documenting the corrective and preventive actions.
Next coming to the procedures in the implementation of corrective and preventive actions
there are seven basic steps for Implementing an effective corrective or preventive action which is
capable of satisfying quality assurance and regulatory documentation
nonconformity, or incident.
2. An Evaluation of the magnitude of the problem and potential impact on the company.
5. Creating an Action Plan listing all the tasks that must be completed to correct and/or
prevent the problem.
7. A thorough Follow up with verification of the completion of all tasks, and an assessment
Identification
The initial step in the process is to clearly define the problem. It is important to accurately and
completely describe the situation as it exists now. This should include the source of the
information, a detailed explanation of the problem, the available evidence that a problem exists.
Reference : corrective and preventive actions guidelines written by Baldwin it’s a pdf ,
And the handbook for quality management system by Thomas Pyzdek Paul Keller
1 what will be the possible root causes that may result in problems or non
conformance?
2. What is the Significance of risk assessment in corrective and preventive
actions?
Ans: in capa risk management or risk assessment plays an important role. In risk
assessment we are determining the deapth or magnitude of the problem. And
the impact of the organization due to the particular problem. It will help to