Which OA document would you reference to authorize a deviation from an engineering spec?

• A. Work Authorization Form (WAFs)
• B. Departure from specifications (DFS)
• C. Quality Assurance Tags
• D. Control Material PO (CMPO)

Answer: (B)

When you need to drift from an engineering spec, there has to be a formal, auditable record that explains why, what is being changed, and who approves it. A Departure from Specifications document does exactly that: it authorizes the deviation, states the justification, outlines the impact on form, fit, function, and safety, and captures the required approvals and implementation details. This ensures everyone understands the change and how risks are mitigated.

Other documents serve different purposes. A Work Authorization Form is about authorizing work tasks, not deviations from specs. Quality Assurance Tags indicate QA status or hold points, not formal deviations. A Control Material PO governs purchasing and material control, not deviations from engineering requirements.