Unit 4: Application of Risk Assessment Across the SMS
2. 4.2 Identifying Critical Equipment and Systems
A crucial application of risk assessment is in maintenance. The Company must identify equipment and technical systems where a sudden operational failure might result in a hazardous situation. A risk assessment should be carried out specifically to identify this critical equipment.
Once identified, the SMS must provide specific measures aimed at promoting the reliability of such systems. These measures should include the regular testing of stand-by arrangements and equipment that are not in continuous use. Techniques such as FMECA (Failure Mode, Effect and Criticality Analysis) can be successfully applied for this purpose.