ORM is not a "Ka-ching!"

Flying Safety, June, 2004 by Tom Rempfer, Juan Gaud

As one more mental crutch, the Kings offer a subacronym embedded within "PAVE," specifically for the Pilot. It is "I'M SAFE." As Pilots we must guard against risk due to:

                   Illness
                   Medicine
                   Stress
                   Alcohol
                   Food
                   Emotions

Any of these can render us more fatigued, less patient, less flexible, or less adaptable. Once again, a checklist is provided. And that's all ORM is, too--a set of concepts and tools to keep us on our toes.

Full circle in our analysis of the evolution of ORM, it's also important to note that ORM in the USAF is evolving as well. In order to simplify and internalize the process, ACC introduced a new action-focused ORM methodology called ACT:

          Assess the Environment for Risk
          Consider Options to Limit Risk
          Take Appropriate Action

Further full circle, this evolutionary discussion brings us back to day one at undergraduate pilot training when we learned the three steps we take in an emergency situation:

1. Maintain aircraft control

2. Analyze the situation

3. Take the proper action

Bottom line--ORM is nothing new. The "KISS" principle applies. Let's keep it simple and in perspective. ORM or ACT, or whatever you want to call your version of the tools, is simply one of a myriad of means to articulate commonsense thought processes that promote safety. It is no laughing matter, even though we do enjoy teasing the Army!

ORM is our No. 1 job as Airmen and aircrew, as employers or employees, as parents or children. ORM empowers us to make a difference for our-selves, our families, and our future, while encouraging subordinates to do the same.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

What we've learned by "thinking through" ORM is that it truly applies to everything, everywhere and everyone. What we've learned by thinking through ORM is that it is not a "Ka-ching!" term. It's the right way to do business all the time, because we want to keep being pilots, parents and professionals.

MAJ TOM REMPFER, USAFR LT COL JUAN GAUD, USAFR USAFR IMAs to AFMC/ESC/SE