Corrective action

Corrective action is about identifying the cause(s) of a nonconformity and eliminate them.

Cause(s) are normally hidden and have to be investigated. So, developing a corrective action requires:

• Analyzing the symptoms – collect information, facts, numbers, about the problem. For example, you can start with a problem called “Reduce customers complaints” and after this symptoms analysis you realize that you should concentrate on “broken bags” the main motive of complaints
• Develop hypothesis – develop a list of potential causes behind broken bags. Select the most promising hypothesis. Find a way to test the validity of the most promising hypothesis. For example, complaints about broken bags are mostly about bags kept at the warehouse for long time
• Develop a solution that will remove the confirmed hypothesis. For example, introducing First In, First Out rule at the warehouse. For example, improving production planning to avoid long stays at the warehouse.
• Implement the solution and monitor its effectiveness.
   

We can find more information below:

• Article - ISO 9001 – Difference between correction and corrective action - https://advisera.com/9001academy/blog/2016/02/09/iso-9001-difference-between-correction-and-corrective-action/
• Article - Seven Steps for Corrective and Preventive Actions to support Continual Improvement - https://advisera.com/9001academy/blog/2013/10/27/seven-steps-corrective-preventive-actions-support-continual-improvement/
• Article - How to use root cause analysis to support corrective actions in your QMS - https://advisera.com/9001academy/blog/2016/03/01/how-to-use-root-cause-analysis-to-support-corrective-actions-in-your-qms/
• ISO 9001:2015 Internal Auditor Course - https://advisera.com/training/iso-9001-internal-auditor-course/
• Book - ISO Internal Audit: A Plain English Guide - https://advisera.com/books/iso-internal-audit-plain-english-guide/