As carriers make every effort to appease the FAA’s ever increasing demands, technicians are finding that their work environment has become more and more restricted and that the processes that where meant to “improve” maintenance have in fact increased technician exposure and given the authorities even more ways to dissect the aircraft technician.

You have no doubt seen and read numerous articles and memos from the company reminding you to help keep costs down by reducing sick calls, working safer, and assuring compliance. While at the same time, you may have read articles I have written or attended meetings in which your AMFA representatives echoed the aforementioned topics.

I would again like to remind you that staying up to date with changes are your responsibility and that anytime you work on an aircraft it must be documented - even a simple screw or light bulb installation. As technicians, it is in our best interest to follow established procedures in the MPM, GPM, AMM, and other documentation to avoid opportunities for non-compliance. Remember that anytime saved is quickly offset by costs incurred with an FAA investigation or self disclosure.

By improving accountability to ourselves, we will be using the best practices that can deliver efficient, compliant, safe, and measurable results.

Relax about the time pressure. Take the time you need to ensure the aircraft is correct and work safely.