NASA published an updated version of NASA-STD-8739.5, Workmanship Standard for Fiber Optic Terminations, Cable Assemblies, and Installation, on Sept. 14, 2015. This update adds an exclusion and a new requirement in addition to meeting agency requirements to periodically check and refresh the standard.

Updates to NASA-STD-8719.9, Lifting Standard reduce redundancy and clarify Lifting Devices and Equipment processes.

NASA’s new system changes how the agency generates and searches for NASA Advisories.  

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.

In 2014, the Electrostatic Discharge Association updated its primary Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) control standard: American National Standards Institute/ESD S20.20. The changes affect how NASA defines the minimum requirements for ESD controls applied when the agency and its suppliers process and handle mission hardware that is sensitive to damaging ESD events.

The revised NASA-STD-8719.9, Lifting Standard — formerly Standard for Lifting Devices and Equipment — is currently in review. The new version has been updated and streamlined for clarity and ease of use.

As more NASA programs and projects begin using Unmanned Aircraft Systems to achieve their missions, the agency must carefully implement policies and controls to ensure safety.

The Office of Safety and Mission Assurance introduces a new objectives-based approach to better support NASA’s increasingly complex missions in a changing design environment.

NASA and other government and industry partners have made substantial progress this year in the development of technical standards that effectively mitigate the longstanding and growing threat posed by electrostatic discharge. 

NASA recently proposed new legislation to address the growing problem of counterfeit parts in the aerospace industry supply chain. The legislation is part of the NASA 2014 Authorization Bill, which passed the House on June 9 and is awaiting approval by the Senate before moving to the president to be signed into law. If passed, NASA will implement changes required by the law through modifications to the NASA Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (NASA FAR Supplement or NFS).