The aim of this handbook new version is to provide the industry with a more robust and consistent application model that allows for greater efficiency in product development. Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) is a methodology designed to identify, analyse and mitigate risks related to product design and manufacturing processes. This analytical and systematic tool is used in the development of new designs, technologies or processes, when an existing one is modified or implemented in a different context, within a thorough quality management framework. The methodology has been evolving in order to adapt to changes in the sector and to customer’s requirements. The latest update came out last June 2019 with the publication of the new MFA Handbook, the first to be produced jointly by the two reference associations in the automotive industry: AIAG (Automotive Industry Action Group) and the German VDA (Verband Der Automobilindustrie).
Used globally by practitioners for the implementation of the MFA, this handbook has been revised with the sustainability of the automotive supply chain in mind, in an effort to harmonise the AIAG and VDA methodologies into a single approach. The new text replaces the previous version (the 4th edition) published by both associations.
The main handbook new features are described as follows:
- Seven-step approach. In this edition, the AIAG is developed on the basis of a 7-step methodology.
- New method. The text introduces a new chapter on Supplemental FMEA for Monitoring and System Response (FMEA-MSR).
- RPN (Risk Priority Number) is replaced by the AP (Action Priority) with high, medium and low levels to facilitate the prioritisation of risks for action.
- The format is restructured by including some new columns and reordering others.
- Assessment tables are adapted with new criteria for the evaluation of Severity, Occurrence and Detection.
