In ST, we seek to manage all suspected non-conformities so that they do not impact our customers. Non-conformity is an unintentional departure from or absence of characteristics specified in
- Customer requirements
- Product specifications
- Manufacturing product instructions
Parts that cannot be recovered are scrapped. In other cases, we are able to recover suspected non-conforming lots by taking corrective actions. This allows us to optimize the production process and meet our customer delivery dates.
Non-conformity Management Process
When an event is detected that may indicate a non-conformity, all lots related to the event are isolated and analyzed to determine if
- lots are conform, or
- lots cannot be recovered, or
- lots have one or more non-conformities
This activity as well as all the process concerning potential non conformities is managed by a multidisciplinary Material Review Board (MRB).
The MRB decides with the support of experiments and measures, both the confirmation of the event as well as the classification into major and minor:
- Major : Possible impact on the final product; cannot be recovered through standard manufacturing process
All major non-conformities are managed by a multidisciplinary board of experts who guarantee that appropriate actions and decisions are taken. This board ensures that 8D team problem solving methodology and risk assessment are thoroughly implemented for the impacted lots; decides on recovery actions; and makes the final decision about delivery to customers.
- Minor : Possible impact on the final product; can be recovered through standard manufacturing process.
Minor non-conformities are managed by the MRB, who can make an informed decision about the potential non-conformity.
ST has dedicated interfaces that ensure corrective actions are taken by subcontractors for all outsourced manufacturing operations.
After corrective actions are taken to recover the lot, a new decision is taken based on measurable acceptance criteria. All events and related information about non-conforming lots, including instructions, evidence of actions and results, are recorded to ensure full traceability.
Except for exceptional cases, where an authorization is signed by the customer, ST delivers only 'conforming' parts to its customers.
More Information and Contacts
For more information please contact your local sales representative or contact our technical support
