What is root cause analysis?

Root cause analysis (RCA) is a problem-solving technique for identifying the root causes or causal factors of a failure on accident.

What are the steps in root cause analysis?

The general steps in root cause analysis typically include the following: Identify and describe the problem (develop various hypotheses related to the event) Gather information about the problem which often times will involve creating a timeline of events leading up to the incident to determine if there are any abnormalities introduced that led to the event. Analyze the information to identify possible root causes and other causal or contributory factors Based upon the conducted analysis rule out various hypothesis that do not align with the fact and event and continue to conduct the analysis until the most likely hypothesis of event is consistent with the facts and root causes Develop and implement solutions to address the root causes

What are some standard tools and techniques used in root cause analysis?

Some standard tools and techniques used in root cause analysis include fishbone diagrams, 5 whys, and problem mapping.

How do you select the most likely root causes?

To select the most likely root causes, you must analyze the information gathered about the problem. First, you will need to consider all potential causes and then choose the ones that are most likely to be responsible for the issue or problem based upon the data gathered and analyzed

Root Cause Failure Analysis & Forensic Engineering

Electrical Failure Forensic Engineering Services

Root Cause Analysis Forensic Scientists

The forensic engineer’s mission is to investigate, solve, and explain the most challenging engineering and scientific problems. Forensic engineering is the application of engineering principles and science in investigating the failure of a machine, component, material, structure, system, and more.

While it is easiest to think of our process as ‘reverse engineering’ – using scientific methodology to uncover why something went wrong or stopped working – it is more accurate to say we conduct a root cause analysis.

The Basics of Root Cause Analysis

Root cause analysis is an in-depth investigation of all the potential causes of an incident. When we conduct a root cause analysis, we start with one question: “What step out of the sequence of events would have prevented the incident from occurring if removed?”

This involves gathering extensive data about each potential cause, then evaluating that data to determine which cause would have stopped the incident from occurring.

The Steps of a Root Cause Analysis

While the process of conducting an analysis may differ from case to case depending on the unique circumstances of the situation, every root cause analysis follows these steps:

1. Define the Problem

Defining the problem is not as simple or obvious as it may seem, as it is not uncommon to begin the investigation only to realize that the problem lies in another area. It is crucial, then, to approach every issue with an open mind while laying aside all expectation and confirmation biases.

2. Gather Data

Gathering data means collecting every piece of available information possible. This goes far beyond reviewing raw data, conducting tests, and shifting through evidence, and extends to comprehensive interviews with everyone involved.

3. Find the Cause(s)

After thoroughly defining the problem and reviewing every possible data source, the cause(s) should be evident. They may be technical, human, procedural, or a combination of two or more.

4. Find Solutions

Knowing what caused the event is good for peace of mind and liability issues, but it is not enough in root cause analysis. It is critical to seek solutions, which are classified as corrective (short-term or stop-gap solutions that address the direct cause of the issue) or preventive (long-term resolutions that targets the root cause and prevents it in the future).

5. Develop Strategies to Correct/Prevent

Once the solutions have been identified, it’s time to work with our clients to develop a strategy to prevent the problem from occurring again.

The McDowell Owens Difference

McDowell Owens has extensive resources that allow us to provide a custom forensic solution for every assignment. We are uniquely qualified to conduct root cause analysis for incidents where injury or property damage have occurred, such as:

Building Collapse
Sprinkler Failure
Machine Malfunction
Fires and Explosion
Construction Defects
Electrical Failure
Materials Failure
Structural
Product Defect
Collisions and Crashes
Marine Incidents
Energy and Renewable System Failure

- Building Collapse
- Sprinkler Failure
- Machine Malfunction

We evaluate the available evidence and apply scientific methods, specialized knowledge, and the latest analytical technologies to reach scientifically sound opinions and solutions for our clients.

When performing forensic analysis, our team thoroughly investigates the issues – from taking data at the scene to analyzing drawings, material specifications, supporting documentation, and conducting tests. We produce reports that are clear, concise, and accurate.

About McDowell Owens

McDowell Owens Engineering, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary, nationwide forensic engineering firm. Since 1986, we have provided comprehensive, unbiased forensic engineering and analysis services. Over the decades, we have worked with private and public sector clients in the legal, oil and gas, insurance, electrical, and petrochemical industries, among others.

As established leaders in the field, McDowell Owens professional engineers, fire scientists, and consultants are experts in forensic failure analysis. Our clients rely on us to conduct thorough investigations to produce an accurate analysis in the wake of any incident or disaster.

Root Cause Failure Services