SMS vs. Safety Management Program

The goal of an SMS is to manage and monitor safety risks effectively.

• A Safety Management System (SMS) includes:
  – One component of a complete safety program
  – Identifying the hazards and categorizing the risks
  – Developing, documenting and mitigating safety related issues
  – Tracking and measuring the results of safety related activities
• A complete safety program versus a stand-alone SMS also includes:
  – Standards manual(s)
  – Emergency Response Plan
  – Providing immediate feedback on potential safety risks
  – Defined expectations of all personnel
  – Training Program
  – Support Resources
  – Corporate Culture
  – All aspects of the flight operation

Our programs range from a full subscription Safety and Compliance program to SMSplus™ for those flight departments only needing certain components of our comprehensive safety management program.

FAA mandates - on the horizon?

The FAA is in the early stages of mandating a safety management system (SMS) that focuses on managing risk. Insurance companies also support SMS. However, they encourage a more comprehensive, well-rounded safety management program that encompasses other resources, qualifications, and a support network within an organization.

In October 2006 the FAA released AC 120-92, notifying aircraft operators of pending legislation that would make SMS mandatory. Canada, Australia, and New Zealand have already mandated SMS; Africa and Europe are currently in the process of doing so.

"Having made the recommendation that all types of aircraft operators adopt a safety management system, the FAA is now considering a rule mandating SMS. James Ballough, FAA director of Flight Standards Service, revealed at the Bombardier Safety Stand-down in Wichita, Kans., last week that the agency would like to make SMS mandatory but offered no details on the timing of a potential rulemaking. To get an idea of what may be required if SMS becomes law, see SMS advisory circular, AC 120-92."
-Aviation International News Operational Alert, October 12, 2006

Remember DRVSM? Then Mode S?
Get ready for SMS.

U.S. aircraft operators might recall the difficulties of meeting the deadlines for DRVSM and Mode S. Baldwin's ready-to-implement program can prepare you for SMS in just 4-5 months (instead of the typical 18-24 months) and at a fraction of the cost.