330 FW 5, Exhibit 2, Risk Analysis: The 4 M's, Fish and Wildlife Service Manual, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Exhibit 2, 330 FW 5
Risk Analysis: The 4M’s

Date: March 24, 2008

Series: Aviation

Part 330: Aviation Management

Originating Office: Office of Aviation Management

RISK ANALYSIS: THE 4M’s

METHOD

1. Is there an alternative method that would accomplish the mission more safely and/or efficiently (including accomplishment by ground methods)?

2. Is the method selected approved and do detailed instructions for safe accomplishment exist?

3. Have adequate flight following and communications methods been established?

MEDIUM

1. Can factors of terrain, altitude, temperature, or weather that could adversely affect the mission’s success be mitigated?

2. Will the mission be conducted at low (below 500' AGL) or high altitudes – can the same objective be achieved by flying at a higher altitude AGL?

3. If low level flight, have all known aerial hazards been identified during the planning process and are they known to all participants?

4. If there is a potential for an airspace conflict (military, media, or sightseeing aircraft), and have mitigating measures been taken?

5. Have adequate landing areas been identified and/or improved to minimum requirements?

MAN (GENERIC)

1. Is the pilot properly carded for the mission to be conducted?

2. Will the flight be conducted within the pilot flight time/duty day requirements and limitations?

3. Have the minimum number of personnel necessary to accomplish the mission safely been assigned, and do they meet personnel qualifications and experience requirements?

4. Will adequate personnel (flight and ground crew) and pilot briefings be conducted prior to the flight?

5. Are users aware that the pilot in command has final authority over any operations conducted involving the aircraft or its occupants?

6. Are all users aware that anyone involved may terminate a flight if an unsafe condition is perceived to exist?

MACHINE

1. Is the aircraft capable of performing the mission in the environment (altitude, temperature, terrain, weather) where the operation will be conducted?

2. Is the aircraft properly carded for the intended mission?

YES

_____

_____

_____

_____

Note: Be aware that a “NO” answer does not preclude the flight from occurring. A “NO” answer means that you should perform a risk assessment of that particular area or concern and mitigate the hazards associated with the risk.

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