Abstract: A method and system for monitoring web defects along a moving web of paper involves determining a dimension of a web defect as the paper web moves along an established paper path in a machine direction. A distance from a side edge of the paper web to a location of the web defect is also determined as the paper web moves along the established paper path. A value indicative of a likelihood of paper web failure at the web defect is then established based at least in part upon both the determined dimension and the determined distance. A determination of whether to stop the moving paper web for repair of the web defect can then be made based at least in part upon the determined failure likelihood indicative value. An alternative technique involves establishing a plurality of paper web width regions. A dimension of a web defect is determined as the paper web moves along an established paper path in a machine direction. The web defect is categorized as falling into one of the established paper web width regions.