Without doubt most people “in the know” accept that an effective Aviation Safety Management System can provide not just an extra layer of protection throughout the business, but can contribute to meaningful saving by better allocation of financial resources.
One of the first challenges is ensuring that the Safety Manager has the necessary support and competence to deliver an all-encompassing role. A somewhat unique role which is provides a service, which is able to manage and analyse significant amounts of Data to determine any exposure, which needs to be addressed and mitigated.
The next challenge is actually getting hold of the data – there is much to deal with in terms of culture and the willingness to report in particular related to small issues – for larger events the reporting typically takes place, because of the visibility. However with a ratio of 1 to 30 there are many events that typically go unreported, which needs to be addressed.
A critical component of an effective SMS system is the Risk Analysis Process – It is a subjective assessment, which requires a level of technical expertise to make effective determinations – again this is a competence related activity, which needs to be effectively managed for best results.
Ensuring that any proposals for mitigation action is presented in the correct way to the business area owner / Nominated Person so that they can make the final choice – However, in any event to document the process in a way, which provides a full audit trail.
To ensure that the training program is assessed for effectiveness and is delivered consistently at a level appropriate for the role of the staff member. The training program should also mature as the SMS itself develops.
Whilst we oblige the Accountable Manager / CEO to accept responsibility for the entire process do we ensure that THE Chief Executive has sufficient comprehension related to an in effective Safety System, and how the effectiveness of the SMS can be validated on a continuing basis.
An effective Safety Management System encourages proactive behaviours, which identify potential exposures. It is the actions that are taken as a result of this “heads up”, which is able to limit what could have been a negative outcome.
One of the challenges faced by exponents of SMS is the difficulty of showing than nothing adverse happening is an outcome of an effective SMS but this is the reality we find ourselves facing. !
Sofema Aviation Services offers SMS training from implementation to Safety Investigation
For further details please see here or email: office@sassofia.com
