Supplementing Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point with Root Cause Analysis

Root cause analysis (RCA) pertains to causal inference science. Simplified methods aid in uncovering root causes and solving issues. This review was conducted to explore core RCA methods, identify components beneficial to hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) systems, and assess publications proposing supplementing HACCP with failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA). RCA methods differ in their approaches to defining factors and uncovering causal chains. A general RCA model was used to illustrate commonalities. An understanding of causal mechanisms aids in identifying root causes. Root causes also can be found at failures in detection and system performance. Ishikawa categories of causes were used to organize information, potentially aiding in managing prerequisite programs and corrective actions. Criticality analysis, a key FMEA element, enhances hazard analysis. Ishikawa categories such as work elements can help identify causes and establish more effective controls. Aligning contributing factors from environmental assessment with work elements further enhances HACCP, simplifying epidemiological data integration. Utilizing principles of FMEA and special causes of variation can potentially improve the management of critical control points.