Which step is performed first in the NCR closeout process?

• A. Implement corrective action
• B. Investigate root cause
• C. Close out with records
• D. Verify effectiveness

Answer: (B)

Investigating the root cause is the first step because you must understand why the nonconformance happened before choosing effective fixes. Identifying the underlying reason ensures the corrective actions address the real problem, not just symptoms. Once the root cause is known, you implement corrective action, then verify its effectiveness, and finally close out with records documenting what was found and done. Containment or immediate actions may be needed upfront, but the formal closeout sequence starts with root-cause investigation.