Clarification pertaining to the status of Safety Management System (SMS) Training courses given by the SACAA

Following concerns from members of the industry regarding the SMS training that is given by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) we wish to clarify any uncertainty by sharing the following information:

The training that is provided by the SACAA is part of its obligation under ICAO’s requirements for a State Safety Programme and as a result it forms an integral part of our industry roll out for SMS. As an ICAO course, the course is a recognized course and will fulfill some of the requirements for basic safety management training. However, it will have to be supplemented with training on the South African regulatory requirements, including the additional training required for safety officers.

Guidance on the training requirements for SMS was developed in a joint CAA/Industry workgroup and thereafter work shopped with the Industry. The CATS syllabus containing the minimum legal criteria for Safety Management and Safety Officer/ Manager training as required by the CAR is being finalized through the SCORR process.

Should you need more information, please contact us at rqc@caa.co.za .