CRM Safety Reporting Systems

Pilots and other aviation personnel are encouraged to report safety-of-flight associated incidents. An "incident" is an event that could have led to or become an "accident." Safety incident reporting systems have been established to collect these data. These systems/programs encourage incident reporting through a non-punitive approach. Those who submit reports to ASRS are guaranteed anonymity; those submitting to ASAP are protected from reprisals. This approach to accident prevention recognizes unintentional mistakes and errors as part of the human condition. Two important aviation safety reporting systems are:

• Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS) - Established in 1975 and operated by NASA for the FAA, this reporting system is used to collect and analyze aviation safety incident reports that are voluntarily submitted by pilots, flight attendants, mechanics, ground personnel and others involved in aviation operations. These reports are held in strict confidence and are de-identified before they are entered into the ASRS database.
• Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP) - The objective of this FAA sponsored program is to encourage air carrier and repair station employees to voluntarily report safety information that may be critical to identifying potential precursors to accidents. ASAP provides for the collection, analysis and retention of this data. ASAP data is used to develop corrective actions and training to prevent a reoccurrence of the problems identified.