Choice and assessment of improvement measures critical for process operation (in reference to the requirements of ISO 9001:2015)

Poznań University of Technology, Faculty of Management Engineering, 11 Strzelecka St., 60-965 Poznań, Poland

^* Corresponding author: adam.gorny@put.poznan.pl

Abstract

Improvement measures should be seen as a sine qua non condition for improving operating efficiency. The measures may vary in nature and range from minor process enhancements to continuous improvements. Improvement measures were selected and evaluated by the FMEA process methodology which helped identify irregularities and their causes as well as indicate which irregularities are most likely to hamper proper process performance. In defining the relationships, reference was made to the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 standard [1]. Process performance disruptions were assumed to reduce the efficiency and effectiveness of task performance and, most importantly, put process participants at risk of property damage and health impairment. Particular emphasis was placed on occupational safety with a view to reducing the damage caused by failures to secure adequate working conditions. It is only after the scope of analysis has been extended to include criteria related to occupational safety and the ability to ensure worker-friendly working environments that an organization gains the ability to rectify the related errors and, ultimately, attain compliance with ISO9001:2015.