Correction is an action taken to eliminate a detected nonconformity. Correction is like first-aid, it’s the instant action that is taken to correct the nonconformity or to reduce the impact nonconformity that has occurred.

Corrective actions are steps that are taken to remove the causes of an existing nonconformity or undesirable situation. Corrective action will target the root cause so that the nonconformity or undesirable situations do not re-occur. Corrective action can be considered as a problem solving.

Preventive actions are steps that are taken to remove the causes of potential nonconformities or potential situations that are undesirable. Preventive action is like Failure Mode and Effective Analysis or Risk Management. We need to anticipate the risks or undesirable situation that may occur and then think of actions that shall eliminate the cause of nonconformity. Preventive action has to be identified protectively, against the potential nonconformities, risks, defects or noncompliances.