OSHA
U.S. federal regulation for workplace safety standards
AS9110C
Aerospace QMS standard for aircraft maintenance, repair, overhaul.
Quick Verdict
OSHA enforces mandatory US workplace safety via regulations and inspections, while AS9110C is a voluntary aerospace QMS certification ensuring MRO airworthiness. Companies adopt OSHA for legal compliance; AS9110C for market access and quality excellence.
OSHA
Occupational Safety and Health Standards (29 CFR 1910)
Key Features
- Enforces safety via 29 CFR 1910 standards
- General Duty Clause covers recognized hazards
- Hierarchy of controls prioritizes engineering solutions
- Risk-based inspections target high hazards
- Electronic injury reporting through ITA
AS9110C
AS9110C: Quality Management Systems for Aircraft Maintenance Organizations
Key Features
- Risk-based thinking embedded in planning and operations
- Counterfeit parts prevention and detection controls
- Configuration management for airworthiness traceability
- Maintenance release and human factors requirements
- Supplier evaluation and external provider oversight
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
OSHA Details
What It Is
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, codified in 29 CFR 1910 for general industry, are U.S. federal regulations under the OSH Act of 1970. They mandate safe, healthful workplaces, covering hazards via specific standards and the General Duty Clause. Primary approach is performance-based with hierarchy of controls prioritizing elimination and engineering.
Key Components
- Subparts A-Z address walking surfaces, PPE, hazardous materials, toxic substances.
- Over 400 standards including HazCom (1910.1200), LOTO (1910.147), recordkeeping (Part 1904).
- Core principles: hazard identification, controls, training, enforcement.
- Compliance via inspections, citations; no certification but penalties enforce adherence.
Why Organizations Use It
Legal mandate reduces injury risks, penalties (up to $165K willful). Lowers workers' comp, boosts productivity, meets stakeholder ESG demands, enhances reputation via VPP.
Implementation Overview
Phased: gap analysis, written programs (IIPP), training, audits. Applies to most U.S. employers; state plans may enhance. Ongoing via inspections, electronic reporting; no formal certification.
AS9110C Details
What It Is
AS9110C (AS9110:2016 Rev C) is an international quality management system (QMS) standard for aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) organizations. It builds on ISO 9001:2015 with aerospace-specific requirements for safety-critical processes like configuration management and counterfeit parts prevention. The primary purpose is ensuring continuing airworthiness through risk-based thinking (RBT) and PDCA cycles.
Key Components
- Core clauses (4-10) from ISO HLS, plus MRO additions: maintenance planning, release controls, human factors, supplier oversight.
- No fixed control count; focuses on documented information, risk registers, process maps.
- Built on process approach, leadership commitment, performance evaluation.
- Certification via accredited registrars with Stage 1/2 audits.
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets customer/OEM contracts, regulatory alignment (FAA/EASA Part-145).
- Mitigates safety risks, reduces rework/AOG events.
- Enhances market access, operational efficiency, stakeholder trust.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, process design, pilot, audits, certification.
- Involves training, eQMS, internal audits; suits MROs globally.
- Requires 3+ months operational data pre-certification. (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | OSHA | AS9110C |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Workplace safety, health standards, recordkeeping | Aerospace MRO quality management, airworthiness |
| Industry | All US industries, general industry focus | Aviation maintenance, repair organizations globally |
| Nature | Mandatory US federal regulations, enforced inspections | Voluntary certification standard based on ISO 9001 |
| Testing | OSHA inspections, injury recordkeeping, reporting | Internal audits, management reviews, certification audits |
| Penalties | Civil fines up to $165k, criminal for willful | Loss of certification, no direct legal penalties |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about OSHA and AS9110C
OSHA FAQ
AS9110C FAQ
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