Glossary · Manufacturing systems
Rework
Also known as: Reworking
German: Nacharbeit
In manufacturing, rework is the action taken on a nonconforming product to make it conform to the requirements, for example by reprocessing, repairing or replacing parts, followed by renewed inspection.
- Manufacturing systems
In one sentence
Rework is the action taken on a nonconforming product to make it conform to requirements, followed by renewed inspection.
Example
Boards with a missing component go to the rework station, where the component is soldered by hand and the board is retested.
How it applies
- Quality: ISO 9000 distinguishes rework (making the product conform) from repair (making it acceptable for use without full conformity). Rework must follow approved instructions and be followed by inspection.
- Traceability: Reworked units should be traceable, with the rework step recorded in the genealogy. In serialized supply chains, rework can require disaggregation and re-aggregation.
- Regulation: In pharma, reprocessing and reworking of batches are defined terms with strict rules; in medical devices, rework must be documented in the device history records.
- Documentation: Write rework instructions as controlled work instructions and define which defects may be reworked at all. Record the root cause, because frequent rework points to a process problem to fix with corrective action.
Rework vs. repair
After rework, the product fully meets requirements. After repair, it is acceptable for use but may deviate, which usually requires a concession.