Electrical appliances design improvement by reliability-safety analysis

The method consists of a modified failure modes and effects analysis during the design phase and minimal hardware inspections during parts fabrication. A step-by-step method of conducting the analysis is presented, with summarized results in the risk acceptability matrix. Criteria for the risk assessment are defined. To integrate all necessary data for the analysis, as well as the computation results, a new form (reliability-safety analysis worksheet) was elaborated. All entries and ground rules with regard to the worksheet are methodically explained. Appendices list failure modes, failure causes, probability of occurrence marks, severity of failure marks, difficulty of detection marks, and potential hazards. To illustrate the method, a reliability-safety analysis for a home refrigerator is described. A sample of a practical worksheet is presented.<>