Safe Launch Plan Template for Automotive Programs
A safe launch plan describes the extra controls you apply when a new part starts production, until the process has proved itself. This template produces a clean, signable document you can share with the customer.
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Safe Launch Plan Template
Safe Launch Plan
Company: Acme Precision Components Program: Compact SUV platform, rear brake bracket Part: BRK-4410-R rev C Customer: OEM Plant A Start of production: 2026-11-16 Launch lead: J. Okafor, Launch Manager Planned duration: First 8 weeks or 20,000 parts, whichever is later
Purpose
This plan defines the additional controls applied during the early production period of Compact SUV platform, rear brake bracket to detect and contain any nonconformance before it reaches OEM Plant A, and sets the criteria for returning to the normal control plan.
Added controls
100 percent final inspection of critical dimension D12 and torque check on assembly. Dedicated inspector each shift. Hourly layered audit of the press line.
Responsibilities
| Activity | Owner | Frequency | Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| Added inspection | Quality | Every shift | Inspection sheet |
| Layered process audit | Production supervisor | Hourly | LPA form |
| Containment of nonconforming parts | Quality | As needed | Containment log |
| Launch review meeting | J. Okafor, Launch Manager | Daily launch review at 08:00, weekly summary to the customer | Minutes |
Exit criteria
Cpk at least 1.67 on special characteristics for 3 consecutive weeks, zero customer complaints, first pass yield at or above 98 percent, all open PPAP actions closed.
Escalation
Any critical characteristic out of specification, any customer-reported defect or any failure to meet an exit criterion extends the safe launch period. The launch lead informs the customer representative within one working day and updates this plan.
Approvals
This is a starting template based on common automotive practice for a pre-launch or safe launch control plan. Your customer requirements may specify duration, exit criteria and format, so follow them first. Not legal advice.
Daily launch dashboard from ERP and MES data
An optional review of how scrap, yield and complaint data can feed your safe launch exit criteria automatically.
Optional. The tool and every export work without this. No spam.
How to use the template
Fill in the program, part, start of production date and launch lead, then describe the added controls and the exit criteria in your own words. The preview updates as you type. When it reads correctly, export it to PDF to send to the customer, or to Word if you want to edit the layout. Attach the current control plan and PFMEA so reviewers can see what the added controls sit on top of.
What good exit criteria look like
Exit criteria should be measurable, time-bound and agreed with the customer before launch. Avoid vague wording such as stable process. Use numbers and dates the team can verify from records.
- Capability on special characteristics over a set number of weeks
- First pass yield or scrap rate threshold
- Zero customer complaints or returns in the period
- Open PPAP and APQP actions closed
- Packaging and logistics running without premium freight
Relationship to the control plan
Many customers expect a pre-launch control plan as a distinct phase of the control plan, with more frequent checks and larger samples than production. The safe launch plan is the narrative and responsibility layer on top of it. Keep the two aligned and retire the added controls only when the exit criteria are met and documented.
Common mistakes
Teams often set an end date instead of an end condition, then drop controls on schedule while problems remain. Others add inspection but forget to staff it on every shift. A third mistake is not telling the customer, so a containment step that was meant to be visible is not credited. Keep a log of what the added controls actually found.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a safe launch?
A safe launch is a defined early production period with extra inspection, closer monitoring and faster escalation, used to protect the customer while a new process proves it can meet requirements. It ends when agreed exit criteria are met.
How long should a safe launch last?
There is no universal duration. Many programs use a number of weeks or a quantity of parts, whichever is longer, and customers may specify it. Tie the end to measurable criteria rather than the calendar alone.
Is a safe launch plan the same as a pre-launch control plan?
They are closely related. The pre-launch control plan lists the characteristics and checks, while the safe launch plan adds roles, reporting and exit criteria. Some customers use the terms interchangeably.
Can I use the template without any ERP?
Yes. It runs entirely in the browser and exports PDF, Word and Excel. No account or upload is needed.
If launch data like scrap, inspection results and complaints live in your ERP or MES, Netray can build a daily launch dashboard that supports these exit criteria. The template is free to use as is.
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