UNIT – 3 CRM

CREW RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Crew Resource Management (CRM) is a training and management concept used primarily in the aviation
industry, but it has also been applied to other fields such as healthcare and maritime operations. CRM is
designed to improve teamwork, communication, decision-making, and situational awareness among the
members of a crew, with a particular focus on aviation.

Origins of CRM in Aviation:

The origins of Crew Resource Management can be traced back to the 1970s and early 1980s when the
aviation industry recognized the need to address human factors in aviation accidents. Some key
developments and influences include:

1. Tenerife Airport Disaster (1977): This tragic accident, in which two Boeing 747s collided on the
runway of Tenerife's Los Rodeos Airport, was a major catalyst for the development of CRM. It
underscored the importance of communication and decision-making among flight crews and air
traffic control.
2. NASA Research: NASA conducted research on human factors and teamwork in aviation, leading
to the development of training programs that focused on non-technical skills, including
communication and decision-making.
3. United Airlines' Cockpit Resource Management (CRM) Program: United Airlines played a pivotal
role in developing and implementing CRM training for its flight crews. Their program, initiated in
the late 1970s, laid the foundation for the widespread adoption of CRM.
4. Introduction of CRM Training: CRM training programs were introduced by various airlines,
regulatory authorities (e.g., the Federal Aviation Administration in the United States), and
aviation organizations. These programs emphasized open communication, leadership, decision-
making, and conflict resolution within flight crews.

Over time, the success of CRM in aviation led to its adoption in other high-risk industries, such as
healthcare, where it is known as "Crew Resource Management”.

MANAGEMENT OF CRM : CRM MANAGER

Each operator should appoint a CRM MANAGER within the company who is responsible for all aspects of
aircrew CRM .

Developing the syllabus

Selection and training of CRM instructors and examiners.

The training manual should contain all information necessary for the manager to teach or supervise
training .

The coordination of all CRMI & CRME would be the responsibility of the manager .

WHAT IS MRM ?

Maintenance Resource Management (MRM) is a systematic approach used in aviation and other high-
reliability organizations to enhance safety, improve operational efficiency, and prevent errors or
accidents by focusing on the human factors and team dynamics within maintenance and technical
operations. MRM is somewhat similar to Crew Resource Management (CRM), which is used in the flight
deck to improve communication, teamwork, and decision-making among flight crews.

MRM is essential in aviation to prevent maintenance-related accidents and incidents. It helps

organizations proactively manage risks and enhance overall safety.

Key components and principles of Maintenance Resource Management (MRM) include:

1. Communication: MRM emphasizes open and effective communication among all personnel
involved in aircraft maintenance, including mechanics, inspectors, and supervisors. This
promotes a free exchange of information, allowing everyone to work together seamlessly.

2. Teamwork: MRM encourages a culture of teamwork and collaboration within the maintenance
team. Team members should feel comfortable working together, sharing knowledge, and
addressing concerns collectively.

3. Error Management: It's recognized that errors can happen, but the goal of MRM is to identify,
understand, and rectify these errors before they lead to serious safety issues. Reporting and
learning from errors are important aspects of MRM.

4. Decision-Making: MRM helps individuals and teams make informed and effective decisions. This
includes assessing risks, considering alternatives, and making decisions in a systematic and well-
informed manner.

5. Problem-Solving: MRM focuses on developing problem-solving skills to address technical issues

that arise during maintenance tasks. It emphasizes the use of structured problem-solving
techniques.

6. Situational Awareness: MRM encourages a high level of situational awareness among

maintenance personnel. This means having a clear understanding of the current environment,
potential risks, and the status of ongoing maintenance activities.

7. Continuous Learning: Maintenance personnel are encouraged to engage in ongoing training and
education to stay current with industry best practices and technological advancements.
8. Safety Culture: MRM aims to foster a strong safety culture within the organization, where safety
is a top priority, and individuals feel comfortable reporting safety concerns without fear of
reprisal.

9. Regulatory Compliance: MRM programs often align with industry regulations and guidelines to
ensure that organizations meet safety and maintenance standards.