Frequently Asked Questions (Click here to download Brochure)

Download printable version of SMS Frequently Asked Questions

I. What is NATA Safety 1st Management System?

Q: What is SMS?

A: The SMS defines how operational safety should be managed and how you can integrate it into your organization’s business activities. It keeps the safety message consistent, interesting, and always out front.

With the Safety Management System you can really understand the risks inherent within your business. Armed with this understanding, you can continuously evaluate your business for hazards that may increase risk, and do something about them.

Q: What is the goal of NATA SMS?

A: To provide a complete safety management program specific to your operation. The SMS is based on recognized safety standards and is supported by rigorous industry data that will reduce or eliminate accidents and their resultant costly insurance claims.

Q: Do you have to be a NATA or Safety 1st member to participate?

A: No, all aviation businesses are welcome to participate. NATA members receive discounted participation fees.

Q: What are the main elements of the SMS program?

A: You will be provided a comprehensive safety management guide that can be customized to your organization. Based on industry best practices and procedures, the guide is supported by live interactive training sessions (Webcasts).

Additionally, you will receive up-to-date industry safety information via a monthly online newsletter, recommended corrective action based on true “root cause analysis” of recent accidents and incidents and free safety consultation.

Q: How can we participate in NATA’s Safety 1st Management System?

A: Contact us by Email Safety1st@nata.aero, Fax (703) 845-0396, Telephone (703) 575-2045 or online at www.natasafety1st.org about program details and costs.

Q: What is the SMS Program Manual?

A: The manual is a comprehensive guide for the creation, implementation and use of a formal safety program for your aviation business.. The SMS manual is broken down into modules. Each module is supported by a Webcast for your Safety Coordinator to further develop your customized SMS or enhance your current safety program with advanced industry best practices..

Q: What does the SMS Program Manual Address?

A:
- Safety Management Roles and Responsibilities
- Hazard Identification
- Accident/Incident Reporting
- Data Gathering
- Safety Investigation
- Safety Communications
- Root Cause Analysis
- Safety Training
- Emergency Preparedness

Q: What types of business would benefit from participating in this program?

A:
- Fixed Base Operators
- Ground handlers
- Airports
- Charter Operators (Part 135 or Part 91)
- Maintenance Facilities

II. What Are the Benefits

Q: What are the financial benefits for an aviation business?

A: By improving your safety performance you will reduce out-of-pocket costs for small “hangar rash” type accidents, eliminate one or more insurance deductible payments and ultimately lower premiums. This program provides a data-driven approach to safety that will positively affect your bottom line.

Q: How does the SMS improve operational safety?

A: Aviation, in its many forms, has inherent risk; how well we manage that risk is what moves this industry forward and attracts more customers. Once the elements of the SMS are integrated into your company’s culture, then, and only then, can you become a truly superior organization -- one that operates on more than just plain luck.

SMS is a dynamic program that continuously provides its members with the most current safety practices and procedures.

Q: What other benefits are there?

A: Through a data sharing process, your organization will have access to true root cause analysis of accidents and incidents. Sanitized data will be tracked and trended to generate effective solutions for all program participants.

Your safety coordinator will have access to recognized industry experts to help you through all of this.

Q: How was this program put together?

A: NATA developed this program in direct response to requests from its membership. The program was developed through a partnership with SH&E a well recognized aviation consulting firm with expertise in safety, security and operations. The program’s sponsors are leaders in aviation insurance and fuel.

Q: Can our business use the Safety 1st Management System in company promotion and marketing materials?

A: We encourage businesses to promote their participation in the SMS, however all external references to Safety 1st and the SMS must be approved by the NATA program manager in advance.