Aviation English for Aircraft Technical Engineering Staff - Considering Maintenance Error
SofemaOnline reviews the errors specifically attributable to interaction with documentation in the production of task cards and other maintenance data.
Introduction
It is both understood and recognized that certain aircraft maintenance errors are strongly linked to the issue of documentation both related to its content as well as the lack of use/engagement.
Related to technical authorship the primary concern is that the technician may misunderstand the information/context and as a result use their own knowledge instead of seeking clarification of a potential anomaly.
Case Study (Based on Data gathered following investigation & workshops)
The following are examples directly related to interpretation error of the information provided.
1. Didn’t read/follow
2. Did not retrieve the required information
When requested to provide the reasons to support the understanding of any “disconnect” the following information was gathered.
Gaining an Insight!
Why do maintenance technicians fail to read or use the procedure document, even though this is an organizational requirement?
Amongst several reasons our focus should be on the perceived quality of documentation related to:
a) The perception that in general, the technical documentation is difficult to use i.e. - low utility
b) Difficult to find relevant/pertinent information i.e. low usability
Summary
The most frequent reasons provided for non-compliance related to the following factors:
a) If I followed the task exactly as described in the task card/data, the job would not get done
b) I was not aware of the need to use the procedure
c) I know what is in the procedure already
d) I rely on my own skills and experience
Break Down of Additional Factors Related to Accuracy & Presentation
Note - multiple elements can both be present
Related to Accuracy - (% are only for guidance)
i. I could not do the job in time if I followed the Task Card Procedure 60%
ii. They are believed to be inaccurate (or may be inaccurate) - 20%
iii. Job Card/Task information is out of date - 45%
iv. Task Instruction/Procedure is unworkable - 45%
v. Following the Task Instruction/Procedure makes it more difficult to do the work - 42%
vi. Following the Task Instruction/Procedure makes it too restrictive/time-consuming - 45%
Related to Presentation - (% are only for guidance)
i. It is difficult to know which is the right procedure - 32%
ii. The information is too complex and too difficult to use - 42%
iii. It is difficult to find the information needed within the procedure
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