If there are warning signs but still operating, this corresponds to which failure type?

• A. Functional Failure
• B. Potential Failure
• C. Hidden Failure
• D. Intermittent Failure

Answer: (B)

When warning signs exist but the system is still operating, you’re dealing with a potential failure. This means there’s a fault condition or degradation that indicates a risk of future failure, but no actual loss of function has occurred yet. The equipment is still running, yet warning indicators signal that reliability is declining and maintenance or intervention may be needed to prevent a real failure.

Functional failure would mean the system no longer works. Hidden failure implies the fault isn’t detected or visible, which isn’t the case here since warning signs are present. Intermittent failure means the issue comes and goes; the scenario describes ongoing warning signs while operating, not a sporadic fault.