After each of NASA’s major mishaps — Apollo 1, Challenger and Columbia — the agency investigated the mishap and applied findings to future flights. As spaceflight became safer with the implementation of the lessons learned, mishap investigations also improved from each experience. With NASA preparing to fly three new crewed space vehicles in the coming years, clear understanding of the Mishap Investigation process with regards to Human Spaceflight and the underlying authorities and legal landscape of these investigations becomes paramount. 

NASA-STD-8719.9, Lifting Standard went into effect Nov. 2, 2018. The update consisted of slight technical changes, new recommended Lifting Device Equipment Manager minimum requirements and editorial cleanup. Because this standard went through a major revision three years ago, updates to this revision were minor. 

Updates to Chapters 4, 5 and 8 of NPR 8715.3, NASA General Safety Program Requirements went into effect on Aug. 1, 2017. These updates, part of Revision D, met the NASA requirement that ensures policies are updated at least every five years; however, a complete update to the policy is still in the works.

When a mishap or close call occurs, there’s always a human component to consider. It’s not about blame, but rather understanding the circumstances around the incident and how they can be avoided in the future to prevent recurrence.

Changes to NPR 8621.1, Mishap and Close Call Reporting, Investigating, and Recordkeeping went into effect on May 19, 2016. These updates affect NASA’s process for endorsing and releasing mishap reports following incidents.

Fall Protection Program administrators from each center joined NASA’s Construction Safety Working Group at Kennedy Space Center June 2-3 to provide valuable input on one of the most dangerous work activities in construction. The group members helped focus this second annual face-to-face on fall protection, including discussions on requirements, rescue plans and training. 

Glenn’s Facilities Division tracks risks to ensure its parent directorate — the Facilities, Test and Manufacturing Directorate — and the center are well aware of facility risks and how they may impact safety of personnel and facility assets.

Changes to NASA Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement 1852.223-73 will make NASA’s proposal review process quicker and more efficient. The requirement changes permit companies competing for low-cost and administrative contracts with minimal hazards to submit Safety and Health Plans after the contract is awarded.

New courses in SATERN provide accessible training in Construction Safety for NASA employees and contractors. The offerings are video captures of courses that traditionally are taught only in-person, and as a result expand the availability and accessibility of important training for NASA’s construction community.

The newly established NASA Construction Safety Working Group held its first annual meeting at Kennedy Space Center July 8-9.