Which term describes the official authorization to deviate from technical specifications?

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

Answer: (C)

When a design or procedure can’t meet a technical specification, an official authorization to deviate is needed. This is described by the term Departure from Specifications, abbreviated DFS. DFS is a formal, documented approval that allows a product or process to operate outside the exact specs for a defined reason, scope, and duration, with traceability and controls in place. It ensures that the deviation is reviewed, approved by the responsible authority, and includes conditions for monitoring and eventual reversion if required. The other terms don’t represent an authorization to depart from specs: a Work Authorization Form is about authorizing tasks, Quality Assurance Tags indicate status or QC checks, and CMPO relates to configuration management duties, not the formal authorization to deviate.