After implementing recommendations in an FMEA, what should be the next step?

Following the implementation of recommendations from a Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA), the appropriate next step is to record new Risk Priority Numbers (RPNs) to evaluate the effectiveness of those recommendations. This is crucial because RPNs serve as quantitative measures of the risk associated with different failure modes, taking into account the severity, occurrence, and detection ratings.

By updating the RPNs, engineers and managers can assess whether the measures put in place have successfully reduced the risks to an acceptable level. This evaluation not only ensures that the actions taken were effective, but it also informs any further action required if the risks remain unacceptable. Continuous monitoring and updating of RPNs foster a proactive reliability culture, as it drives ongoing improvement and ensures that any new issues are identified and addressed promptly.

In summarizing the steps following the implementation of FMEA actions, it is important to emphasize that reassessing the RPNs is integral to the reliability maintenance process, whereas other options such as discontinuing performance monitoring or not changing RPNs would hinder the reliability improvement efforts.