Safety Management System (SMS)

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Are you aware of that in the near future, all aviation operators and aviation service providers will be required to have a Safety Management System (SMS) in place?

The FAA defines SMS as "a management system for integrating safety activities into normal day-to-day business practices". Current regulations impose technical standards for industry products and services but they do not address the framework within which safety of those products and services will be managed. The FAA anticipates creating a new Part within the FARs to accommodate SMS.

SMS requirements are in various stages of implementation around the globe. The requirements appear to be in the final stages in Canada, Australia and The European Union. The FAA is currently conducting SMS pilot programs at 20 airports around the US.

In addition, FAA is issuing an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) laying the groundwork for requiring aviation operators and businesses to implement a Safety Management System (SMS). Aviation Week - March 20, 2009

Every SMS will be unique to the operation. Some of the elements are; Job Hazard Analysis, Legal Requirements, Establishing Objectives and Targets, Defining Roles, Responsibility and Authority, SMS Documentation and Document Control, Emergency Preparedness and Response, etc.

There appears to be a trend toward criminalizing responsibility for aviation accidents and SMS compliance will soon be a legal requirement worldwide. It is strongly recommended that all aviation operators and service providers begin SMS implementation as soon as possible.

AIS is here to help. We have access to a variety of SMS solutions from on-line "do it yourself" programs to on site implementation by SMS experts. Contact your AIS representative or one of our AIS offices for further details.