Cause and Effect Chart

You should observe the task as it is normally carried out; however, if necessary, you may stop the

task to gain full understanding of all steps. Conducting the task as closely to the conditions that

existed when the event occurred will provide the best understanding of the event causal factors.

Summarize and consolidate any problem areas noted. Identify probable contributors to the event.

CAUSE AND EFFECT CHART

Figure D-1 shows the conceptual process of cause and effect charting. Figure D-2 shows a sample cause

and effect chart. The primary effect given on the chart is the problem you are trying to prevent from

recurring. To complete the cause and effect chart:

Identify the cause and effect starting with the primary effect. For each effect, there is a cause that

then becomes the next effect for which you need to identify the cause. Each block is an effect and

a cause, except for the first block (which is the primary effect) and the last block in each series,

(which is the root cause).

For each cause, list in a block just below the cause two ways you know it to be true. If only one

way is known or not firm, all possible causes should be evaluated as potential causes, and the

bases for rejected and accepted causes should be stated.

When this process gets to the point where a cause can be corrected to prevent recurrence in a way

that allows meeting your objectives and is within your control, you have found the root cause or

causes.

D-2