Aviation Safety Technologies

The Aviation Safety Technologies program, under the Office of the Secretary of Defense, focuses on enhancing the safety and occupational health of the Department of Defense workforce. It aligns with strategic directives such as the DoD Digital Modernization Strategy and the DoD Safety and Occupational Health Strategic Plan. A primary goal is to protect personnel and investments in weapons systems and infrastructure by fostering a robust safety culture. This involves establishing a centralized system for hazard, near-miss, and mishap reporting, which is crucial for timely analysis and mishap prevention.

The Force Safety & Occupational Health initiative within this program aims to modernize the Force Risk Reduction tool into a comprehensive safety information case management system. This system will standardize data collection across all DoD components, addressing gaps identified by the National Commission on Military Aviation Safety report and fulfilling requirements set by 10 United States Code Service 184. By consolidating safety and occupational health information from various sources, the program seeks to provide accurate safety insights that can forecast, mitigate, and prevent future incidents.

In FY 2024, efforts will focus on developing this case management tool based on approved safety data processes and conducting pilot programs with select DoD components lacking existing systems. The following year, plans include updating the tool based on pilot feedback, ensuring information security, and expanding its operational capability to additional components. This expansion aims to enhance data transmission capabilities and ensure compliance with safety standards while providing necessary training for implementation.

Failure to advance this initiative could result in non-compliance with legislative requirements and hinder the DoD's ability to manage safety risks effectively. The program emphasizes the importance of a centralized safety management system in making informed risk decisions and resource investments for mishap prevention. By prioritizing data-driven oversight within its governance approach, the DoD seeks to improve operational readiness and safeguard its personnel through innovative safety solutions.