If a nonconforming item is found, what action is required?

• A. Accept anyway if minor deficiency.
• B. Issue a nonconformance report and implement corrective actions.
• C. Ignore and continue work.
• D. Re-test only after project completion.

Answer: (B)

When a nonconforming item is found, the proper action is to formally document the deviation and start corrective actions. This is done by issuing a nonconformance report that clearly records what is wrong, where it is, and the exact requirements that are not met. The NCR then drives a disposition decision—whether the item will be repaired, replaced, accepted with concessions, or rejected—and triggers root-cause analysis to prevent recurrence. Segregation or control of the item until disposition is approved helps ensure it isn’t used or relied on in the project. This process creates traceability, accountability, and a clear path to bring the work back into compliance.

Accepting the item as is, ignoring it, or continuing work without addressing the deficiency would bypass essential quality controls and contract requirements. Waiting to re-test only after project completion misses an opportunity to correct the issue early and could propagate defective work. The structured NCR and corrective-action approach is the correct, proper method to handle nonconformances.