ABSTRACT
The requirements for the identification of process outputs are intended to enable outputs with one set of characteristics to be distinguishable from those with another set of characteristics. Identifying product and its components should start at the design stage when the product is conceived. Thus, identifying output status enables verified outputs to be distinguishable from unverified outputs and conforming outputs to be distinguishable from nonconforming outputs. Any product without status identification should be quarantined until re-verified and found conforming. Once a product has passed through the demand fulfilment process and is in use, it requires no status identity unless it is returned to the production process for repair or other action. Traceability may be a requirement of the customer, legislation or statutes or simply a requirement of the organization to conduct investigations when events do not proceed as planned. Traceability is key to enabling corrective action, product recall and defending product liability claims.
