Voluntary Safety Reporting System: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how aviation personnel in Japan can report safety hazards without fear of punishment through this voluntary reporting system.
The Voluntary Safety Reporting System is a dedicated channel designed to help aviation professionals report safety hazards or potential risks without the fear of facing punitive measures. By focusing on learning rather than blame, the system aims to improve overall aviation safety through open communication.
Who it's for
This scheme is available to all aviation personnel. If you work within the aviation industry and have observed a hazard or a potential risk that could impact safety, you are eligible to use this reporting mechanism.
What you get
The primary benefit is a non-punitive reporting channel for safety hazards. This means that when you report a concern, the focus remains on understanding the hazard rather than punishing the individual involved. This is particularly useful for reporting "hiyarihatto" (near-misses or "scary" moments) where an accident was narrowly avoided. By using this channel, you contribute to a safer environment where the industry can learn from potential issues before they lead to actual accidents.
What it costs you
There is no monetary fee to use this system. The main cost is the time you must dedicate to the process. To ensure the information is useful for safety improvements, you will need to spend time documenting the specifics of the safety concerns you have observed.
The catch to know
The most important detail to remember is the timing of your submission. You must submit your report before an incident is officially investigated. If an official investigation into an incident has already been launched, the specific protections of this voluntary reporting system may no longer apply.
How to apply
- Identify the safety hazard or risk you wish to report.
- Document the details of the situation thoroughly.
- Submit the documentation through the appropriate official channels.