Part Storage Area (PSA)

A PSA is a designated area where parts are stored. This area needs to be an FCA that is only accessible to authorized individuals. These parts need to be safeguarded against FOD introduction and part cannibalization. It is essential that the part maintains the same integrity it came in with, when it is released.

A PSA needs to be treated like benchstock in that it is only accessible to authorized individuals. When a part is needed and not available in benchstock, it is tempting for employees to cannibalize other parts to get what they need.

Cannibalization can be useful when done properly (with supervisor approval and the part that is cannibalized is put on order). But when done without approval, the results can be catastrophic. Questions will be raised as to where the cannibalized parts are, ultimately leading to an investigation and even placing the cannibalized part in quarantine. Again, transparency is the goal with any FOD program. Total part control is crucial to maintaining program transparency.

Because of this transparency, it is imperative that there is some type of sign in/sign out documentation for the PSA. This documentation needs to identify who brought the part to the PSA, who accepted the part, time/date, any remarks, who released the part, who accepted the part, time/date, and any remarks.

A PSA needs to be safeguarded and transparent to be effective.