How to Create an Implementation Plan for Aviation SMS Programs

Implementation plans are the roadmap for your aviation safety management system. It includes the steps and timelines needed to "install" (i.e., implement) your safety program in your organization. What does it mean to "implement" an SMS program? It means establishing all the safety elements needed to maintain compliance with your oversight agency.

There are 4 Phases to SMS Implementation:

• Phase 1: Get grounded by establishing safety policy and documenting high-level elements of the safety program
• Phase 2: Establish baseline activities and resources needed to have functional SMS
• Phase 3: Transition from SMS documentation to actually providing/acquiring resources for safe operations (this is big accomplishment) such as training, SMS software, data metrics, KPIs, etc.
• Phase 4: Develop reliability controls for Phase 3 elements, such as monitoring risk controls, safety promotion, inspection processes, SMS performance review process, etc.