How can one avoid having failure modes equal in RPN?

To avoid having failure modes that are equal in Risk Priority Number (RPN), it is essential to consider different score ranges for Severity, Occurrence, and Detection. RPN is calculated as the product of these three factors, and variations in their scoring can lead to distinct RPN values for different failure modes, even when they may seem similar at first glance.

By differentiating the score ranges, you ensure that each failure mode is evaluated based on its unique characteristics and impacts. For instance, if two failure modes have the same values for Severity, Occurrence, and Detection, their RPN will obviously match. However, if you apply a nuanced scoring range that takes into account the specific context of each failure mode—such as the operational environment, potential consequences, and likelihood of detection—it will help to produce varied RPN values. This approach provides a clearer prioritization of risks, allowing for more effective decision-making in terms of reliability and maintenance management.

The other options, while they might contribute to a reliability analysis, do not specifically address the key need for differentiation in scoring to prevent equal RPN values among failure modes.