How should nonconforming equipment be dispositioned?

How should nonconforming equipment be dispositioned?

• A. Isolate, tag, document, notify appropriate authority, repair/rework/replacement as required, and hold release until corrected.
• B. Ignore nonconformities to save time.
• C. Return to service immediately without documentation.
• D. Replace only when minor discrepancy.

Answer: (A)

When equipment doesn’t meet the specified requirements, it must be treated as unsafe to return to service until a formal disposition is completed. The correct approach is to isolate the item so it cannot be used, apply a tag to clearly identify the nonconforming condition, document the nonconformance in the appropriate records, notify the proper authority (such as maintenance control or quality/engineering), and pursue repair, rework, or replacement as required. The item remains held until the corrective action is completed and release is granted only after disposition. This sequence prevents accidental installation of faulty equipment, maintains traceability, and ensures compliance with safety and maintenance procedures. Skipping steps, returning to service without documentation, or substituting a blanket “minor” rationale without proper evaluation undermines safety, accountability, and regulatory compliance.

When equipment doesn’t meet the specified requirements, it must be treated as unsafe to return to service until a formal disposition is completed. The correct approach is to isolate the item so it cannot be used, apply a tag to clearly identify the nonconforming condition, document the nonconformance in the appropriate records, notify the proper authority (such as maintenance control or quality/engineering), and pursue repair, rework, or replacement as required. The item remains held until the corrective action is completed and release is granted only after disposition. This sequence prevents accidental installation of faulty equipment, maintains traceability, and ensures compliance with safety and maintenance procedures. Skipping steps, returning to service without documentation, or substituting a blanket “minor” rationale without proper evaluation undermines safety, accountability, and regulatory compliance.