Implementing SMSfor the Smaller Operator

IHST Accident Intervention Workshop 2013

Presented by Sunshine McCarthy

Today’s Objective…

“Examine how it can be done”

You know it’s the right thing to do, but…

• It requires resources you don’t have• It’s too much red tape• It’s hard to understand and can be overwhelming• It’s an interruption to your operation/mission• It could result in changes to how you currently

operate• It could be hard to get buy in from the team

Surprise! You’re probably already doing it and don’t know it

Build a structure around what you’re already doing…

Tighten the process

Close the gaps

Where to start…

1. What are you committed to?

2. How will you fulfill the commitment?

3. Who’s responsible?

Risk Assessment…

• Mission • Personnel experience• Human Factors• Aircraft status• Environment• Landing Zone• Other

Risk Assessment ChecklistAlpine Air RA Checklist

Date: Location: Mission Guidance

Urgency NOTAMS TFRs

Personnel Experience level

Human Factors Fatigue assessment Hours on duty

Aircraft Open items Scheduled/unscheduled mx

Environment Weather Time of day Terrain Inflight hazards

Landing Zone Hazards

Other

“Carelessness and overconfidence are more dangerous than deliberately accepted risk”

~ Wilbur Wright, 1901

Final thought…why IS-BAO?

• Regulatory pressures• Insurance advantages• HAI accreditation• Betterment of the company• Other