Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the fundamentals to provide a practical hands-on session to build process confidence and develop competence.

Introduction

In this practical hands-on session, we will focus on assessing the serviceability of composite materials using an aviation composite tap testing hammer. The tap testing method allows us to detect and evaluate such damage by analyzing the acoustic response of the composite material. Let's dive into the step-by-step procedure.

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the requirements to implement a competence control system to comply with the AMC1 145.30(e) Personnel requirements

Introduction

>> Competence should be defined as a measurable skill or standard of performance, knowledge and understanding, taking into consideration attitude and behaviour.
>> The referenced procedure requires amongst others that planners, mechanics, specialised services staff, supervisors and certifying staff whether employed or contracted, are assessed for before unsupervised work commences and that competence is controlled on a continuous basis.

SofemaOnline (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers stakeholder communication best practices.

Introduction

It should be noted that Commercial Airports worldwide are required to have an Airport Emergency Plan (AEP) in place which includes the capacity to set up and operate an Airport Crises Response function including setting up an Emergency Operations Centre.

Airlines should therefore understand that their role is to submit an airline emergency response plan (to the airport authority/operator) which integrates with (but is subordinate to) that of the airport’s equivalent plan (i.e. the AEP)

Background related to Air Carrier (AC) operating Commercial Air Transport

Since the introduction of regulation 965/2012 European Operators have been working within the guidelines of a Safety Management System.

With the introduction of EASA Part CAMO, the SMS will be extended to cover also CAMO activities. An immediate challenge relates to the competence of existing Airline SMS Managers.

Sofema Online www.sofemaonline.com considers the process to manage competence following the transition from EASA Part M Subpart G Obligations to EASA Part CAMO Obligations

Introduction

EASA first identified a requirement to manage competence within the EASA Part M CAMO environment in February 2010 regulation 127/210 this was then updated with  Regulation (EU) 2015/1536 - see the following:

The effectiveness of the Safety Management System is directly connected to the management of Competence throughout the organisation.
 
The goal of an effective safety Management System (SMS) competence management system is to:
 
a) Reduce risks
b) Ensure compliance with all legal and other regulatory requirements
c) Comply with the organisation’s business objectives and ensure contractual commitments
d) Empower individuals to deliver their job role obligations in a safe, efficient and effective way
 
Delivering functional safety relies on a complex mix of Process Procedures, oversight mechanisms, Human Factors, and the impact of the Safety Culture within the workplace. Competence can be negatively affected by aspects of physical, medical, or mental fitness which should also be considered on an ongoing basis.
 
Competence is an essential attribute when considering behaviours in non-normal situations.
 
For a person to be considered competent, they need appropriate qualifications, together with experience, and other “soft skills” appropriate to their job role.

Rising to the challenge of mentoring a growing workforce becomes a more difficult challenge if the management lacks the specific skill set to deliver the Competency Management processes.

What do we mean by competence?

Essentially we are talking about the ability of the individual to perform a task or series of tasks with the correct attitude, awareness, knowledge, and understanding.

All EASA-approved organisations are required to demonstrate the management of competence. 
Sometimes insufficient attention is given by the organisation to the role of managing competence within the organisation employees who lack knowledge and experience may in fact increase the likelihood of an error or mistake (the worst outcome).