Measuring safety using safety data systems

When it comes to reporting safety data, there are several definitions that are used by the NTSB when measuring aviation safety. These include defining between accidents and incidents, classifications of injury, and classifications of accidents. Many people may get confused between as to what is an accident or incident exactly. An accident is an occurrence associated with the operation of an aircraft that takes place between the time any person boards the aircraft with the intention of flight and the time all such persons have disembarked, and in which any person suffers a fatal or serious injury or the aircraft receives substantial damage. An incident however, is an occurrence other than an accident associated with the operation of an aircraft that affects or could affect the safety of operations. Examples of incidents can include near mid-air collisions, runway incursions, or in-flight fires.
When it comes to incident reporting systems, there are two main types in use: mandatory and voluntary. In a mandatory reporting system, people are required to report certain types of incidents. The system has detailed regulations which outline who shall report and what shall be reported. This is the only way for this system to be enforced. The goal of a mandatory system is to avoid unnecessary duplication. It also collects more data on technical failures rather than the human factors aspect. In a voluntary reporting system, pilots, controllers, mechanics and others can voluntarily submit reports on hazards in which they themselves were involved in. A voluntary system also achieves confidentiality and for those reporting, they do not face fear of any reprisals. This tends to be more favorable and successful than a mandatory system in collecting human factors data. A good example of a voluntary reporting system is the Aviation Safety Reporting System. It is funded by the FAA, but it’s operated by NASA. It’s designed to gather the most information possible without discouraging the reporter. It is a highly favorable system as it protects the identity of the reporter from being known, as well as encourages reporting incidents without the fear of retribution.