Presented by Sofema Online (SOL) 

Integrating a risk-based approach into safety and quality assurance processes involves a structured and systematic procedure.

This approach focuses on identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to ensure regulatory conformity and operational safety. Here’s how it can be effectively implemented:

Identifying Hazards -The process starts with the identification of potential hazards that could impact safety and quality. This involves collecting and analysing data from various sources such as incident reports, safety audits, operational processes, and employee feedback.

Sofema Online (SOL) takes a look at the factors and elements related to root cause analysis within an Aviation Organisation following a finding from the Compliance / Quality Assurance System.

The need to identify the root cause of any nonconformities within an EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) compliant aviation quality assurance system is crucial for maintaining the safety, reliability, and efficiency of aviation operations.

Presented by Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com

Introduction

In the context of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations, the distinction between Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) is not just a matter of semantics but a regulatory requirement. EASA mandates that QA and QC serve distinct, yet complementary roles within the aviation sector, specifically emphasizing the independence of QA from production processes, in contrast to QC's direct involvement.

The requirement for QA to remain independent from, yet collaboratively engaged with, QC and production processes, highlights EASA's nuanced approach to aviation safety and quality control.

Introduced by Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com

Quality Assurance within the context of EASA Part 145 regulations plays a critical role in ensuring the safety, reliability, and airworthiness of aircraft maintenance operations. These regulations mandate a comprehensive framework for Aircraft Maintenance Organisations (AMOs) to adhere to, encompassing a wide range of quality management principles and practices designed to uphold the highest standards of aircraft maintenance and safety.

The Foundation of QA in EASA Part 145

>> Accountable Manager's Responsibility: At the core of the EASA Part 145 quality system, the Accountable Manager holds ultimate responsibility for the entire Quality System, signifying the importance of leadership and accountability in maintaining quality standards.

Introduction by Sofema Aviation Services (SAS) www.sassofia.com – SAS EASA Compliant Aviation Quality Audit Training Programs have more than 30 Years of relevant commercial aviation experience sitting behind our courses. This level of experience enables us to offer the most practical and immersive training experience.

See Course Details here https://sassofia.com/course/easa-compliant-aviation-quality-assurance-senior-and-lead-auditor-course-5-days/

Introduction to our 5 Day EASA compliant course specifically developed for building competence related to Aviation Quality Assurance Senior and Lead Auditors.

Sharing a view - Steve Bentley CEO of Sofema offers his take on how we interpret the terms QA & QC

Introduction - Is there a difference between EASA/FAA & ISO? Interpretation of Quality Assurance & Quality Control?

Well yes but first let's start with this interpretation (not mine) - Quality Glossary Definition: Quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC)

      » Quality assurance and quality control are two aspects of quality management.
      » While some quality assurance and quality control activities are interrelated, the two are defined differently.
      » Typically, QA activities and responsibilities cover virtually all of the quality system in one fashion or another,
      » While QC is a subset of the QA activities.
      » Also, elements in the quality system might not be specifically covered by QA/QC activities and responsibilities but may involve QA and QC.

• Training for Internal Auditors
• How to satisfy Independent Audit Requirements within an EASA Compliant Organisation
• Developing Aviation Auditing Skills for all Staff

Message for EASA Compliant Organisations - Operations/CAMO/AMO/Airports/ATO/ - How do you manage your internal auditing objectives?

SofemaOnline (SOL) wwww.sofemaonline.com offers the following course to support the development of your internal auditors

All EASA Approvals typically provide an independent Quality Assurance Function (EASA Part 21J requires a design assurance system)

The next comment is to consider the EASA “take” on QA & QC (A Quality System Contains Both). QC is embedded in every aspect and element of the Production Process.

The primary objective of an EASA Compliant Quality Auditing is to ensure both external and internal compliance with regulatory and organisational procedures.

We have a number of secondary objectives which are typically organisationally driven rather than EASA driven. (Never the less such elements provide for an indication of the intent and effectiveness of the organisation.)

An example of a secondary objective would be a demonstration of continuous improvement – which would mean a reduction in findings over time for a consistent level of auditing activity.