Filing an NCR
Step-by-step guide to documenting a Non-Conformance Report with all required information.
What Is an NCR?
A Non-Conformance Report (NCR) is a formal quality document that records a deviation from specifications. It could be a dimensional issue (a bore is 0.003" oversize), a surface finish problem (tool marks visible where smooth finish is required), a material defect (inclusions found in incoming bar stock), or a process deviation (wrong program revision was used). NCRs are a foundational element of any quality management system and are required by standards like ISO 9001 and AS9100.
When to File an NCR
File an NCR whenever you discover a part or batch that does not meet the documented specifications for the work order. This includes: parts that fail dimensional inspection, visible surface defects, incorrect material or hardness, incorrect quantity delivered by a previous operation, or any deviation from the engineering drawing or customer requirements. When in doubt, file the NCR — it is better to document a potential issue than to let a non-conforming part reach the customer.
Accessing the NCR Form
Click "File NCR" from your station panel's quick actions, from the work order detail page, or from the Quality section in the main navigation. The form opens with your current station and active work order pre-selected (if applicable). You can change the associated work order if the NCR applies to a different job.
Required Information
The NCR form requires: the affected Work Order number, a Description of the non-conformance (what is wrong, measured vs. specified dimensions, quantity of affected parts), Quantity Breakdown (how many good parts, how many scrap, how many need rework), and Severity Level (Minor: cosmetic or within tolerance range; Major: out of spec but usable with concession; Critical: safety risk or complete failure to meet requirements).
Supporting Evidence
Whenever possible, attach supporting evidence to the NCR. This might include: photographs of the defect, screenshots of CMM inspection results, measurements from calipers or micrometers, or references to the drawing revision and tolerance zone. Evidence strengthens the NCR and helps the reviewer make a faster, more informed disposition decision.
Submission and Next Steps
Click "Submit NCR" to create the record. The NCR enters "Open" status and appears in the supervisor's review queue. Depending on your organization's settings, the associated work order may be automatically placed in QC Hold to prevent further processing on potentially defective parts. You will receive a notification when the NCR is reviewed and dispositioned by a supervisor.