FMEA of marine systems: moving from prescriptive to risk-based design and classification

Abstract

This paper describes the results of studies by American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) to provide risk-based guidelines for performing a failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) on high-speed craft and propulsion remote control systems. This approach describes how frequency and severity categories can be used in the FMEA to guide designers in assessing the risk and reliability of the system. Recognizing that many designers may not be familiar with these risk tools, the guideline provides step-by-step instructions on how to prepare, conduct, and document the analysis.