Is there a DASR Form for ASMS approval?

There is no specific/separate DASR application form for ASMS approval. Instead, ASMS is a pre-requisite for many types of organisation approvals (DASR 145, 21J, 21G, M, ANSP and MAO)

Which organisations require an ASMS?

Organisations that require an ASMS are:

Military Air Operators

DASR AMC ARO.100.C (3)(h)

Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisations

DASR M.A.712(g)

Production Organisations (21G)

DASR 21.A.139 & 143

Design Organisations (21J)

DASR 21.A.239 & 243

Aerodrome Operators

DASR 139.60

Maintenance Organisations

DASR 145.A.65 (f)

Air Navigation Service Providers

DASR ANSP.40(a)

Military Type Certificate Holder

DASR GM 21.A.14(c)
 

Does the ASMS need to be integrated with other management systems?

ASMS is only one type of management systems, and it may be integrated with other management systems (eg WHS Management Systems). The Authority does not require different management systems to be integrated with an organisation’s ASMS but acknowledges the benefits of an integrated management system. See the DASA ASMS information page for more detail.

What safety improvements are expected to be driven by the introduction of an ASMS?

An ASMS aims to provide a high level of safety by supporting and extending the protection afforded through prescriptive regulation through the ongoing management of aviation safety hazards and risks. Long-term safety improvements include:

  • Clearly defined and established Aviation Safety Management Systems across all of Defence aviation aspects that enable measureable aviation safety outcomes.
  • Reductions in ‘paper-safety’ and compliance-seeking behaviours.
  • Ongoing development and improvement of positive safety cultures.

What is the DASA ASMS evaluation tool?

The assessment of an organisation’s ASMS needs to look beyond ‘compliance and conformance’ to the real ‘performance’ of the system. The assessment of ‘performance’ requires the use of critical thinking and judgement by assessors. The PSOE (Present, Suitable, Operating and Effective) methodology has been selected for ASMS evaluations because it includes consideration of the ‘Effective’ measure. The DASA ASMS evaluation tool has been adapted from the ‘Safety Management International Collaboration Group (SMICG) SMS Evaluation Tool Version 2’. Adoption of the SMICG tool provides a credible and defensible basis for DASA evaluations. See the DASA ASMS information page for more detail.
 

What are the definitions for Present, Suitable, Operating and Effective (PSOE) in DASR ASMS evaluation tool?

  • Present - There is evidence that the indicator is clearly visible and is documented within the organisation's ASMS Documentation, (objective in nature).
     
  • Suitable - There is evidence that the indicator forms part of an implemented and maintained process within the business undertaken and is appropriate based on the size, nature, complexity of the organisation and the inherent risk in the activity for the organisation (subjective in nature).
     
  • Operating - There is evidence that the indicator is in use and an output is being produced, (objective in nature).
     
  • Effective - There is evidence that the indicator is effective and achieving the desired outcome, (subjective in nature).

ASMS Manuals, ASMS Implementation Plans and ASMS Documentation. What is the difference between these and what is required of my organisation?

An ASMS Manual (not a mandated requirement) is a single/central document which details all aspects of the organisation’s ASMS, either explicitly or by reference to other documents. An ASMS Implementation Plan (not a mandated requirement) is a document which details the organisations approach to implementing or changing their ASMS. ASMS Documentation includes all policies, procedures, manuals, forms, records etc. associated with your organisation’s ASMS. Refer to the DASA ASMS Information page for more detail.

What are the qualification requirements of a Safety Manager?

The Authority does not place specific restrictions on the experiences and qualifications for the Safety Manager of an ASMS. However, the Authority will assess the suitability of the nominated Safety Manager for fulfilling the responsibilities of the position during evaluation of the ASMS.

What are the responsibilities of a Safety Manager?

The responsibilities of the Safety Manager may include, but are not limited to:

  • managing the ASMS implementation plan on behalf of the Accountable Manager;
  • performing/facilitating hazard identification and safety risk analysis;
  • monitoring corrective actions and evaluating their results;
  • providing periodic reports on the organisation’s safety performance;
  • maintaining ASMS documentation and records;
  • planning and facilitating ASMS training for staff;
  • providing independent advice on safety matters;
  • monitoring safety concerns in the aviation industry and their perceived impact on the organization’s operations aimed at service delivery;
  • coordinating and communicating (on behalf of the Accountable Manager) with the Authority and other relevant agencies as necessary on issues relating to aviation safety and ASMS; and
  • coordinating and communicating (on behalf of the Accountable Manager) with international organisations on issues relating to aviation safety and ASMS (limited applicability to military organisations).

Where can I find further direction on how to meet the requirements of the DASR ASMS?

  • DASA Staff. Contact via nominated Desk Officer.
     
  • DASR ASMS GM & AMC. The Guidance Material (GM) and Acceptable Means of Compliance (AMC) provide detail on how the DASR ASMS is to be interpreted and implemented.
     
  • Defence Aviation Safety Manual (DASM). The DASM is the corporate solution/model for the ASMS in most military organisations.
     
  • ICAO Safety Management Manual. The DASR ASMS is adapted from the ICAO SMS Framework. Chapter 5 of the ICAO Safety Management Manual contains provides over 50 pages of clear and comprehensive information regarding ASMS that is accepted by the international community.
     
  • CASA SMS Resources. Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has produced a substantial number of written and video resources that are freely available on their website(Opens in a new tab/window).