The Root Cause Analysis Handbook: A Simplified Approach to Identifying, Correcting, and Reporting WorkPlace Errors » (New Edition)

The answer is root cause analysis, a process that allows you to find the cause of single events/problems in the workplace. The Root Cause Analysis Handbook presents a walkthrough example that illustrates the method and shows how to implement it.

Because poor initial problem definition can (and often does) undermine the problem-solving process, Ammerman places special emphasis on this area to build a solid foundation for effective analysis. He also provides guidance on preparing the final report.

The need for clear documentation on dealing with problems makes this book especially valuable for quality managers, engineers, safety managers, and teams implementing the ISO or QS standards. Written in a simple, user-friendly style, you will grasp the core concepts quickly and begin applying them to your work.

Introduction..........1
Overview of Chapters..........1
Background.........2
Terms..........2
Subject Matter/Chapters of Handbook..........3
Format..........5
Comments..........5
Scenario for Examples in Handbook..........6

CHAPTER 1 - DEFINE PROBLEM/COLLECT DATA..........9
Define the Problem..........9
Collect Data..........11

CHAPTER 2 - TASK ANALYSIS..........19
Paper-and-Pencil Task Analysis..........20
Walk-Through Task Analysis..........24

CHAPTER 3 - CHANGE ANALYSIS..........27

CHAPTER 4 - CONTROL BARRIER ANALYSIS..........31
Two Methods for Control Barrier Analysis..........33

CHAPTER 5 - EVENT AND CAUSAL FACTOR CHARTING..........37
Criteria for Event Description..........40
Cause and Effect Analysis..........41

CHAPTER 6 - INTERVIEWS..........49
Techniques for Conducting Interviews..........49
Stage 1: Prepare for the Interview..........50
Stage 2: Open the Interview..........51
Stage 3: Conduct the Interview..........52
Types of Interview Questions..........52
Techniques for Asking Questions and Responding to Answers..........54
The Communication Process..........56
Stage 4: Close the Interview..........60

CHAPTER 7 - DETERMINE ROOT CAUSE..........63
What Are the Types of Causes?..........64
Causal Factor Category List..........66
Determine Causes of Event..........67

CHAPTER 8 - DEVELOP CORRECTIVE ACTIONS..........71

CHAPTER 9 - REPORT..........79
Preparing a Written Report..........82
Presenting to Management..........85
Glossary..........89

Appendix A: Initial Data Gathering Forms: Personnel Statement..........91
Appendix B: Causal Factor Category List..........95
Appendix C: Other Root Cause Analysis Tools and Techniques..........113
Appendix D: Blank PIC Forms and Worksheets..........115
Appendix E: Healthcare Example: Incorrect Operating Room Setup..........121