IFATCA considers ASMT to denote a generic ATM Safety Monitoring Tool that extracts ATM system data to detect infringements to parameters predefined within the system itself.
The evolution of ASMT and the legal requirement to implement it in an increasing number of states presents a challenge for many ATCO communities.
IFATCA Policy is:ASMT shall be part of a Safety Management System and shall not be used by Management as a punitive tool for disciplinary action. Except for Aerodrome Control, the introduction of ASMT shall be preceded by the introduction of STCA. Implementation of ASMT shall be preceded by a clear statement in which its goals are defined. ATCOs shall be involved in the definition of the ASMT role. The criteria used to set up the ASMT parameters shall be carefully planned and monitored. Sufficient consideration shall be given to restrict false or nuisance reports. The system should not be used as a performance monitor for individual controllers. Analysis of any derived data should be undertaken by appropriately experienced and trained ATM safety experts. Data obtained from the system should not be used as a capacity measurement or monitoring indicator. IFATCA has strong concerns about the negative implications of the implementation of an ASMT to the ATM system, especially in regard to the respecting JC principles. However, if an ASMT will be implemented the following principles shall apply: ASMT shall be part of a Safety Management System and shall not be used by management to take punitive action but solely for the prevention of future incidents and accidents. An ASMT shall only be enabled once appropriate safety nets relevant to the task such as STCA have been incorporated. The criteria used to define ASMT parameters shall be carefully planned and monitored with due consideration to minimising nuisance alerts. ATCOs shall be involved in the definition, implementation and future changes of the ASMT role. Any incidents identified by an ASMT shall be subject to a thorough holistic investigation of the scenario by appropriately qualified personnel, taking due account of confidentiality provisions, and any subsequent action regarding the person(s) involved shall take full account of Just Culture principles. The system shall not be used as a performance monitor for individual controllers, for capacity measurement or as a monitoring indicator. Analysis of any derived data shall be undertaken by appropriate safety experts. If an occurrence is only identified by the ASMT it shall not be seen by management prior to investigation as wilful non-reporting by the ATCO. |
| See: WP 156 – Marrakech 2000, WP 158 – Cancun 2002, WP 158 – Buenos Aires 2003, WP 159 – Hong Kong 2004, WP 307 – Las Vegas 2016, Resolution C47 – WP 79 – Virtual 2022 |
Last Update: October 2, 2023