The identification of possible failures, their consequences, and causes of failure is
the most time-consuming part of the FMEA. Each individual processing step is
analyzed at all levels for possible failures. All potential influencing factors should
be taken into account (normally the five Ms, i.e. machinery, manpower, material,
method, and milieu like environment (see section on fish bone diagram).
Failures that may seem hypothetical should also be taken into account, since
the probability of occurrence is not considered until a later stage of the FMEA.
The identification of possible failures is time-consuming, particularly in the initial
phase of the execution of FMEAs. It can be done by brainstorming or using an
available list of potential hazards e.g. for a unit operation. When several similar