Maintenance Human Factors (MHF)

Contemporary Human Factors endeavours have been targeted towards flight deck and cabin crew performance with Crew Resource Management training being compulsory for crews for more than a decade. Additionally, albeit to a lesser extent, Human Factors training has also been applied in air traffic control. Most available literature shows less concern for the Human Factors issues which affect aircraft maintenance personnel who inspect, diagnose and repair aircraft. However, statistically, human error in aircraft maintenance has had a significant effect upon flight safety.

The implementation of a Human Factors programme for aircraft maintenance engineers is probably now one of the key areas where improvements in safety can be made.

EASA 145 Requirements

European Aviation Safety Authority (EASA) part 145 regulations require that personnel involved in any maintenance, management and/or quality audits, must have an understanding of the application of human factors and human performance capabilities. Part 145 approved maintenance organisations are required to have completed the initial training by 28th September 2006.

Maintenance Human Factors Training

Maintenance Human Factors (MHF) training examines the importance of human factors to aircraft maintenance engineering. It is essential to all personnel operating in an aircraft maintenance and engineering environment.

The aim of MHF training is to increase safety, quality and efficiency in aircraft maintenance operations by reducing human error and its impact on maintenance activities.

GAT Maintenance Human Factors Course

The course fulfils the MHF training requirements for EASA 145 approved engineering organisations. The course covers theoretical aspects of MHF training with relevant references to, and examination of human factor related maintenance incidents and accidents. The course utilises video footage, case studies and investigation board reports.

Throughout the course we promote an awareness of our behavioural attitudes to improve and develop communication and interpersonal relationships with all those involved in the aviation system. The training addresses the nature of your company's operations and procedures, which produce particular difficulties and unusual hazards.

The course uses both classroom instruction and practical exercises including group discussions and incident reviews.

Objectives

The objectives are:

• To enhance maintenance personnel's awareness of individual and organisational human factors issues, both positive and negative, that they may affect airworthiness.
• To develop MHF skills, in order to make a positive impact on the safety and efficiency of maintenance operations.