A how-to guide to starting an MSAP program at your company

A Do-It-Yourself Guide to Setting up an MSAP Program

The implementation of an MSAP program at Frontier Airlines was the focus of the Safety News in the July issue. This month the steps of setting up an MSAP program are examined.

According to Dr. Thomas Longridge, who is spearheading the effort at the FAA, the process is simple. "The main tasks are getting buy-in from all parties to the content of the memorandum of understanding, educating the employee population as well as management on the program before it gets started, and working out the logistics of operating a program." Although this may sound easy, the process requires thorough preparation and planning.

The MSAP (and/or ASAP) program provides a safe zone for reporting safety issues without fear that the FAA will take legal enforcement action or that the company will take disciplinary action against the individual.

The program involves the voluntary participation of three groups, the company, the FAA, and any labor association representing the employees. The buy-in that Dr. Longridge referred to from these three groups is the first step. Once all three groups are in agreement to proceed with an MSAP program the development of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) is begun.

An automated MOU generator and other guidance material on setting up an MSAP can be found at http://www.faa.gov/AVR/AFS/AFS200/AFS230/asap/mou1.cfm . This is a screen that allows you to create a personalized MOU by filling in the prompts with your company specific information. A customized MOU is generated and is then reviewed for approval by all involved parties. Once this has been developed to the satisfaction of all parties, it is submitted to the FAA for acceptance. When all parties are in agreement, the document is signed and put in place.

Meanwhile, an event review committee (ERC) is formed. This group is made up of an individual from each party to the MOU. This is the group that will review and analyze reports as they are submitted. Usually the ERC is made up of a management representative of the certificate holder, a representative of the employee labor association, and a specifically qualified FAA inspector from the certificate holding district office.

Other required elements include developing the processes for report review and data collection, analysis, and retention. A comprehensive company employee and management education program must be undertaken as well to familiarize individuals with how to use the program and its benefits.

Once the FAA has accepted the company program, typically an initial demonstration program is implemented to measure the effectiveness of the program and ensure that it meets the safety objectives of the specific MSAP. The demonstration program can last up to 18 months and allows for review and modification.

When the demonstration period is completed and determined to be successful by all parties it can be accepted as a continuing program. This continuing program is subject to review and renewal by the FAA every two years. Any party to the MOU may withdraw at anytime, ending the agreement and the program.

The development and sustenance of a program like this requires significant commitment of human and financial resources, and the FAA cautions interested parties to be prepared to commit the necessary personnel, time, and money to support the program. — By Joy Finnegan