FME(C)A

FME(C)A stands for “Failure Mode, Effects and (Criticality) Analysis”. The original method was referred to as FMEA.

FME(C)A is used to examine and assess all types of failures in a system. With respect to maintenance work, FME(C)A is used to establish installations’ operational reliability. The results are used as a basis to draw up a schedule for regular maintenance. An FME(C)A starts with a description of the system, which is then used as a basis to make a block diagram.

The C for Criticality has been added in order to assess the extent to which an error is critical. A critical error may possibly result in loss (safety, the environment, failure of the installation).

The FME(C)A is carried out in a similar manner to the HAZOP.