Search and Rescue (SAR) Inspector Training
Introduction
- The SAR Inspector Course is specially designed to provide personnel with the theoretical knowledge required to inspect, assess, and evaluate Search and Rescue (SAR) systems, organizations, and operational readiness. The course focuses on regulatory compliance, inspection methodology, safety oversight, documentation review, and performance evaluation in accordance with ICAO standards and national SAR requirements.
Course Goal:
- The course is designed to provide Search & Rescue operators with knowledge, skill, and attitude to upgrade the competencies required to carry out SAR Inspector functions and responsibilities effectively and efficiently in accordance with ICAO Standard and Recommended Practices (SARPs).
- The course will depend on videos, Case Studies and Photos to compensate for practical training.
- This course is a combination of instruction and facilities. The modules will have references to documents to review, interpret and then apply to case studies to build a bespoke framework to take away and further develop on-site.
Objectives
- Understand the international and national SAR regulatory framework.
- Develop skills to plan and conduct SAR inspections and audits.
- Evaluate SAR units, RCCs, and operational readiness.
- Identify non-conformities and issue corrective action recommendations.
- Prepare clear, professional inspection reports and communicate effectively.
- Promote continuous improvement of SAR systems and compliance with best practices.
Expected Outcomes:
- Enhanced competence to plan and execute SAR inspections
- Improved confidence in identifying operational gaps
- Ability to recommend practical improvements
- Strengthened communication and reporting skills
- Readiness to uphold SAR system’s safety and compliance
Who Sould Attend
- • SAR inspectors and auditors • Civil aviation authority oversight personnel • Military or Coast Guard SAR evaluation officers • SAR managers and supervisors involved in compliance assessment • Safety and quality assurance personnel supporting SAR operations
Course Content
- • Overview of the international SAR framework
- • ICAO Annex 12: purpose, scope, and applicability
- • International SAR system structure
- • State responsibilities and SAR Regions (SRRs)
- • National SAR authorities and coordination mechanisms
- • Harmonization Of Aeronautical and Maritime Sar
- • Introduction to Audit Techniques
- • Auditing Standards - Standardized Use of Terms
- • Pre Audit Activities
- • Conduct of An Audit
- • Post Audit Activities
- • Audit Techniques in Aviation
- • Legal basis for SAR inspections
- • Inspector powers, responsibilities, and limitations
- • Professional conduct and ethics of inspectors
- • Confidentiality and handling of sensitive information
- • National SAR Plan: structure and key elements
- • Review of SAR Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- • RCC communication responsibilities
- • Coordination between RCCs and supporting agencies
- • Evaluation of SAR communication procedures
- • RCC staffing, facilities, and readiness requirements
- • Inter-agency coordination assessment
- • Review of operational readiness documentation
- • Human factors in SAR operations
- • Fatigue, workload, and decision-making considerations
- • Safety management concepts relevant to SAR
- • Oversight of SAR personnel training and qualification
- • Evaluation of SAR exercises and drills
- • Use of exercise reports for system improvement
- • SAR inspection reporting standards and documentation
Prerequisite
- Aviation, maritime, or SAR operational background
- Prior completion of a SAR-related course (Pilot, Aircrew, Coordinator, or equivalent)
- Familiarity with ICAO documentation and national aviation regulations
- English proficiency suitable for technical and regulatory documentation