Which of the following is NOT a step in identifying failure modes according to RCM standards?

Identifying failure modes is a critical aspect of Reliability-Centered Maintenance (RCM) and involves systematically analyzing the ways in which a system or component can fail. The process typically includes examining the type of failure mode, the causes of each failed state, and sources of information or indicators related to these failures.

The level of production output, while important in the broader context of maintenance and operational efficiency, does not pertain specifically to the identification of failure modes. It is more focused on the performance metrics of the system rather than the mechanisms or reasons behind failures. Thus, evaluating the production output doesn't directly contribute to understanding how systems fail, which is the core purpose of identifying failure modes within RCM.

In contrast, understanding the type of failure mode connects directly to identifying how a system can malfunction. Similarly, recognizing the causes of each failed state allows for a more thorough analysis of potential failure mechanisms. Sources of information or indicators assist in detecting failures and understanding the context in which they may occur. Therefore, the step related to assessing the level of production output stands apart from the fundamental components involved in identifying failure modes.