Fretting wear plays a crucial role in many cases where failure is observed. Cyclic motion between contacting surfaces is the essential ingredient in all varieties of fretting wear. It is a surface-to-surface form of wear mainly determined by parameters such as displacement amplitude, normal loading, material properties, number of cycles, humidity, lubrication and a few other less common factors. In this paper, we examine the manner and extent to which certain geometrical forms and engagements are subjected to fretting wear often with cracks initiated in the damaged region and the incidence of catastrophic failure. Methods and equipment used in determining the various parameters affecting fretting as a factor in catastrophic failure are discussed. A series of measures to prevent fretting wear have been treated.