Actions taken to bring nonconforming product back to acceptable condition, either by restoring specification (rework) or making an approved fix (repair).
Rework and repair can recover value, but they must be controlled to avoid masking systemic process issues.
Teams should distinguish clearly between restoring full conformance and applying approved deviations.
Operational controls
Effective controls include documented instructions, authorized personnel, verification checks, and traceable records.
High rework frequency should trigger deeper process investigation rather than becoming routine.
Decision factors
Disposition decisions depend on severity, customer requirements, cost, lead time, and regulatory constraints.
Some conditions require scrap or concession rather than repair to maintain compliance.
Key takeaways
- Rework and repair need strict controls and clear definitions.
- Recurring rework is a signal of upstream process weakness.
- Traceable records are essential for compliance and customer trust.