The 5 WHYs Analysis Tool The 5 WHY

The 5 WHYs Analysis Tool • The 5 WHY method is a tool used to identify the root cause of an incident or problem. • The idea is that you take the initial question, like “WHY did X happen? ” and turn the answer into a follow up question, you will eventually find the cause for the issue. • If you have ever had a persistent 2 year old ask you “WHY? ” repeatedly, you get the idea. © 2014 -2015 HSERsource. com, LLC. 1

The 5 WHYs Analysis Tool Policeman: Why did you run out of gas on the freeway? Driver: Because I didn’t have any money with me. Policeman: Why didn’t you have money with you? Driver: Because I left my wallet at home. Policeman: Why did you leave your wallet at home? Driver: Because I was distracted and in a hurry. Policeman: Why were you distracted and in a hurry? Driver: Because I forgot it was my turn to pick up the kids. Policeman: Why did you forget? Driver: Because I didn’t enter it on my i. Phone calendar. © 2014 -2015 HSERsource. com, LLC. 2

The 5 WHYs Analysis Tool • Start by stating the problem, then rephrase the answer into a question in the arrow below. • Keep answering questions until you find the cause. Why did you run out of gas? Why out of gas? Because… No money Why no money? Because… wallet at home © 2014 -2015 HSERsource. com, LLC. 3

Step 1 - Identify the Problem and the Cause Summarize the non-conformity you are trying to solve. Why does the nonconformity exist? Because… Why… Because… © 2014 -2015 HSERsource. com, LLC. 4

State Corrective Action Plan (CAP) proposal. Step 2: Propose a solution Pros Cons Whose expertise or support will you need to make the plan successful? What would motivate them to buy in to this idea? © 2014 -2015 HSERsource. com, LLC. 5

Step 3: Develop an Action Plan Problem we are trying to solve: Next Steps How long will it take? Completion date In Charge 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 How will we know when it is solved? © 2014 -2015 HSERsource. com, LLC. 6