How to Become an EASA Part 145 Stores Inspector

Sofema Online Considers the Journey Path to Become a Stores Inspector within an EASA Part 145 Organisation

To become an EASA competent Stores Inspector in aviation, it is essential to understand the regulatory framework and complete the necessary vocational training to effectively manage and oversee the inspection, storage, and handling of aircraft parts and tools.

Below is a focused guide based on the provided guidance but specifically tailored for the role of a stores inspector.

Role Overview: EASA Competent Stores Inspector

A Stores Inspector ensures that the storage, handling, and issuance of aircraft parts and materials comply with EASA regulations, specifically Part 145. This role is essential in maintaining the airworthiness of aircraft by verifying that all materials are stored correctly, inspected for quality, and released in accordance with regulatory standards.

Responsibilities & Duties of a Stores Inspector

1. Conduct inspections including Electrostatic Sensitive (ESDS) to ensure that parts and materials meet quality and safety standards.
2. Maintain accurate records of parts in storage, ensuring compliance with EASA Part 145 storage requirements.
3. Ensure proper procedures for the receipt, inspection, and release of aircraft components, tools, and materials.
4. Adhere to EASA, FAA, and other aviation authority regulations regarding the storage and distribution of aircraft parts.
5. Detect and prevent the use of unapproved or suspect parts in aircraft maintenance.
6. Work closely with maintenance departments to ensure timely and compliant delivery of parts for ongoing maintenance and repair operations.

Key Areas of Focus

• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with EASA Part 145 regulations, particularly related to stores and warehouse management.

• Quality Assurance: Involves verifying the airworthiness of parts and materials before they are dispatched to maintenance or repair teams.

• Inventory Management: Effective tracking and record-keeping of parts using advanced inventory management systems.

Recommended Training for Stores Inspector Role

To develop the necessary skills and knowledge, Sofema Online (SOL) provides various courses tailored to meet the regulatory requirements for EASA Part 145 Stores Inspectors. The following courses are recommended for this role:

1. EASA Part 145 Specific Training

• EASA Part 145 Initial Training: Provides foundational knowledge of EASA Part 145 regulations, including stores inspection procedures.

• EASA Part 145 Logistics Foundation: Focuses on stores and logistics management within Part 145 organizations, relevant to understanding inspection protocols.

2. Stores Inspection Courses

• Logistics & Stores Inspection Part 1 – Introduction to an EASA Compliant Storage System: This course introduces the basics of managing an EASA-compliant storage system.

• Logistics & Stores Inspection Part 2 – Stores Facility Management Guidance and Inspection: Covers facility management and the practical aspects of conducting inspections.

• Logistics & Stores Inspection Part 3 – EASA Stores Technical Procedures & Additional Training: Provides deeper insights into EASA-compliant technical procedures for stores management.

3. Suspect and Unapproved Parts Training

• Logistics & Stores Inspection – EASA & FAA Suspect Parts Training: Learn how to identify and manage suspect or unapproved parts, which is critical for maintaining compliance and safety.

4. Recurrent & Advanced Training

• EASA Part 145 Recurrent Training: Keeps you updated on regulatory changes and best practices, ensuring ongoing compliance with Part 145 requirements.

• EASA Part 145 Safety (SMS) & Human Factors (HF) Training (Initial & Recurrent): Provides insights into safety management systems (SMS) and human factors considerations, both of which are vital for inspecting and handling parts safely.

5. Related Safety & Regulatory Courses

• EASA Part 145 Safety Training (SMS) Bridging Course: Ensures that your knowledge of SMS is current and aligned with new regulatory requirements.

• EASA Part 145 Stores Tooling Control, Inspection Procedures & Best Practice: Focuses on the correct handling, inspection, and control of tools and equipment in stores.

• Dangerous Goods Cat 8: Provides specialized training on handling dangerous goods, essential for certain parts and materials used in aircraft maintenance.

Continuous Professional Development

In addition to completing these courses, it is essential for a Stores Inspector to stay informed about updates in EASA Part 145 regulations and best practices in stores management. Regular training refreshers and participation in advanced courses can significantly enhance competence in this role.

Next Steps

To become a certified and competent EASA Stores Inspector, begin by enrolling in the foundational courses such as EASA Part 145 Initial Training and Logistics & Stores Inspection. As you progress, ensure you complete advanced and recurrent training to stay up-to-date with evolving regulations. Please see www.sofemaonline.com or email [email protected].