April 13, 2021

sasadmin

Sofema Aviation Services (SAS) Takes a Detailed Look at what is involved and the challenges related to the implementation of a Safety Management System (SMS).

Introduction

How can the SMS engage proactively with the existing Error Management System within the Part 145 Organisation – For example MEDA Type Tools – which are typically reactive. How to convert SMS processes within the organisations to enable the implementation of forward-looking – proactive tools.

An Effective SMS will contain the following elements:

  • Understanding the Problem “What is wrong” – (hazard identification)
  • Developing a Solution “How to Fix the issue” – (remedial action)
  • Ensuring effective resolution of the problem “Has the fix worked” –  (continuous monitoring)
  • The ability to change & Improve “Ensuring both effectiveness and efficiency” –  (continuous improvement)

What is involved in an SMS Implementation Plan:

SMS implementation plans should typically include all of the following elements:

  • Safety policy and objectives;
  • Detailed System description;
  • Full Gap analysis Performed & Documented;
  • Understanding of all SMS components;
  • Safety roles and responsibilities;
  • Hazard reporting policy;
  • Means of engaging employees involved in your SMS program;
  • Ability to deliver Safety performance measurement and monitoring;
  • Provision of Safety training;
  • Safety communication; and
  • Management review of safety performance and System Feedback.

Additionally to acknowledge the need to ensure sufficient resources related to the following areas: (Essential for a strong System)

  • SMS gap analysis,
  • SMS implementation plans,
  • Development of organisational procedures,
  • Interface management procedures,
  • Manpower resources for new roles, and responsibilities within the SMS
  • The provision of SMS training to all staff involved in the processes that affect safety.

Now Consider the Primary Challenges:

a) How will Data integrity be managed?

Consisting of:

  • Safety Reports
  • Safety Information
  • Safety Sources
  • Safety Data – Protection – GDPR regulations

b) How can SMS data be protected and to if necessary ensure preclusion related to the potential for public distribution or other civil litigation use of SMS data?

  • Consider also the challenge of sharing data (potentially a positive) and adverse effects related to reputational loss and other potential impacts on the product marketability.

c) In-effective Safety Reporting due in part to a general lack of engagement as well as under-reporting of safety occurrences typically due to multiple factors including lack of either just culture or reporting culture.

d) Manpower & process shortfalls in the management of the reporting processes, as well as a lack of effective management and analysis of the gathered SMS data.

e) A general lack of an integrated approach, with the need for strong engagement between the role of safety, quality, security and the various business processes throughout the organisation.

f) The challenge of external interface and or engagement with both contract & sub-contract service providers.

g) Effective balance related to the cost of SMS resources (both human and software / technical) versus the “perceived” return on investment.

h) The cost of training for all active service staff with the potential to impact safety throughout the organisation.

i) A lack of effective support material available within the continuing airworthiness areas of EASA Part CAMO & EASA Part 145 providing templates, structure & guidance for establishing safety targets and safety performance.

Next Steps

Please see www.sassofia.com or www.sofemaonline.com or email team@sassofia.com for questions, comments or guidance.

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aviation, EASA Part 145, Safety Management systems, sms implementation, SMS training, Safety Training, SMS, SAS blogs, Error Management System, Safety roles, SMS gap analysis