Definitions of the audit findings

Rules for achieving and maintaining IATF recognition --- Fifth edition for IATF 16949 is a document provided by IATF that contains definitions for the terms you mentioned. Here are the definitions:

Major Non-Conformity

· The absence of or total breakdown of a system to meet and IATF 16949 requirement
· A number of minor non-conformities against one requirement can represent a total breakdown of the system and thus be considered a major non-conformity
· Any non-conformity that would result in the probable shipment of non-conforming products. A condition that may result in the failure or materially reduce the usability of the products or services for their intended purpose
· A non-compliance that judgment and experience indicate is likely to result in the failure of the quality management or to materially red uce its ability to ensure controlled processes and products

Minor Non-Conformity

· A failure to comply with IATF 16949 that, based on judgment and experience, is not likely to result in the failure of the quality management system or reduce its ability to ensure controlled processes or products. It may be one of the following:
o A failure in some part of the client’s quality management system relative to IATF 16949
o A single observed lapse in following on item of a company’s quality management system

Opportunity for Improvement

· A failure in some part of the client’s quality management system relative to IATF 16949
· A single observed lapse in following one item of a company’s quality management system