A modified FMEA tool for use in identifying and addressing common cause failure risks in industry

The nature of common cause failures (CCFs) is explored in the context of existing analytical techniques. Failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) is described as a means for accomplishing early risk assessment in the context of an existing analysis framework. Cause and coupling factor taxonomies are refined to fit the FMEA methodology. This modification allows consideration of CCF risks. Blending this methodology with the standard FMEA process enables a seamless prioritization of single failure and CCF risks for further studies and actions. An example is provided to illustrate the use of this new tool