CAPA stands for Corrective and Preventive Action. It is a systematic approach used by organizations to identify, address, and prevent the recurrence of issues or non-conformities within their processes, products, or services. CAPA is a fundamental element of quality management and continuous improvement practices. Here's an overview of how CAPA works.
CAPA is a cycle that involves continuous improvement:
1. Identification of Issues: Identify issues, non-conformities, or potential risks.
2. Investigation and Analysis: Investigate the root cause and assess the risk factors.
3. Action Planning: Develop action plans for corrective and preventive measures.
4. Implementation: Put the action plans into action.
5. Monitoring and Verification: Monitor the effectiveness of the implemented actions.
6. Documentation: Document all the steps taken and outcomes for future reference.
CAPA helps organizations maintain high-quality standards, improve customer satisfaction, meet regulatory requirements, and enhance overall efficiency. It's a critical component of quality management systems in various industries.