What is often prioritized in a failure mode and effects analysis?

In a failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), the primary focus is on identifying and prioritizing the potential impact of various failure modes. This approach ensures that the most critical failures—which could have significant consequences—are addressed first.

By analyzing the potential effects of each failure mode, organizations can evaluate the severity, likelihood of occurrence, and detectability of each failure. This risk assessment helps prioritize which issues need immediate attention based on their potential impact on safety, performance, and overall operational efficiency.

Thus, focusing on the potential impact allows for informed decision-making in maintenance management, enabling resources and efforts to be allocated where they will be most effective in preventing failures that could lead to costly downtime or safety incidents.