Unscoped DCT Report (Standard DCT)
MLF Label: 4.7.1 (AW) Control of Calibrated Tools & Test Equipment DCT Type: ED DCT Specialty: Airworthiness Peer Group: A - Part 121 Air Operators DCT Revision: 11.0 on 12/29/20 (Released)
Summary Information

Purpose (Certificate Holder Responsibility): To calibrate and control precision tools, measuring devices, and test equipment.
Objective (FAA Responsibility): Determine if the CH will be able to; (1) Comply with regulations; (2) Provide and calibrate precision tools, measuring devices, and test equipment.

The (AW) Control of Calibrated Tools & Test Equipment Element includes the following System(s) and Subsystem(s)

Questions Answers Comments
  4.7.1 (AW) Control of Calibrated Tools & Test Equipment
1   
Does the process design ensure the individual with responsibility provides both financial and human resources for the safety and quality performance of this element?


REFERENCES: 5.21, 5.23(a), 5.25(a), 5.25(b), 5.25(c)

Safety Attribute: Management Responsibility,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121") ,  Rev.  2  3/8/2019 12:47:45 PM, 

QID: 00051915, Response Details: Responsibility ED/EP/SP DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
2   
Is the person with authority clearly identifiable, qualified and knowledgeable to effectively plan, direct and control resources, change procedures and make key determinations including safety risk acceptance decisions for this element?


REFERENCES: 5.23(a), 5.23(b), 5.25(c)

Safety Attribute: Management Authority,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121") ,  Rev.  2  3/8/2019 12:47:48 PM, 

QID: 00051916, Response Details: Authority ED/EP/SP DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
3   
Do process measurement(s) exist to evaluate the performance of this element and implement corrective action if necessary?


REFERENCES: 5.71, 5.73, 5.75

Safety Attribute: Process Measurement,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121") ,  Rev.  2  3/8/2019 12:47:48 PM, 

QID: 00051917, Response Details: Process Measurement ED/EP/SP DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
4   
Does the manual include procedures, standards, and limits for periodic inspection and calibration of:

      #1 Precision tools;
      #2 Measuring devices; and
      #3 Test equipment?

REFERENCES: 121.369(b), 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 20

Safety Attribute: Procedures,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  2  5/21/2014 10:28:20 PM, 

QID: 00007378, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
5   
Do the procedures include instructions for:

      #1 Identifying the test equipment;
      #2 Inspection and calibration (including intervals) of test equipment; and
      #3 Recording of the date and identification of the person accomplishing the calibration?

REFERENCES: 8900.1 Vol 3 Ch 15 Sec 1, 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 17, 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 20

Safety Attribute: Procedures,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  2  5/21/2014 10:28:25 PM, 

QID: 00007387, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
6   
Do the procedures outline and describe the total Automatic Test Equipment /BITE program and related management control for the ATE unit, to include the following:

      #1 Limits and standards;
      #2 Performance evaluation checks and tests;
      #3 Identification of individual Automatic Test Equipment, by test number;
      #4 Maintenance programs;
      #5 The source of the Automatic Test Equipment program tapes (either in-house programming or approved purchase); and
      #6 The method of controlling and identifying the revision status of software programs?

REFERENCES: 8900.1 Vol 3 Ch 15 Sec 1, 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 17

Safety Attribute: Procedures,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  2  5/21/2014 10:28:30 PM, 

QID: 00007394, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
7   
Do the procedures include instructions to ensure that for manufacturing and/or determining equivalency of any special equipment or test apparatus to be used?


REFERENCES: 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 20

Safety Attribute: Procedures,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  1  5/14/2014 10:51:14 AM, 

QID: 00007404, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
8   
Do the procedures include requirements for the functional equivalency acceptance of special equipment or test apparatus to compare the technical data of the manufacturer data to that used by the Operator?


REFERENCES: 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 20

Safety Attribute: Procedures,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  1  5/14/2014 10:51:14 AM, 

QID: 00007406, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
9   
Do the procedures include specific instructions about the proper use of any special equipment or test apparatus?


REFERENCES: 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 20

Safety Attribute: Procedures,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  1  5/14/2014 10:51:14 AM, 

QID: 00007407, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
10   
Do the procedures specify proper storage and protection for special tools and test equipment?


REFERENCES: 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 2 Sec 26

Safety Attribute: Procedures,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  1  5/14/2014 10:51:14 AM, 

QID: 00007409, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
11   
Does the manual include procedures to recall or remove from service any precision tool, measuring device, or piece of test equipment (including any primary or secondary standard) that:

      #1 Has exceeded its inspection or calibration interval;
      #2 Has broken inspection or calibration seals;
      #3 Is suspected of malfunctioning; or
      #4 Is determined to be unreliable?

REFERENCES: 121.369(b), 135.427(b), 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 2 Sec 26

Safety Attribute: Procedures,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" OR "135") ,  Rev.  3  6/25/2018 3:45:03 PM, 

QID: 00007410, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
12   
Do the procedures require that technical personnel were properly trained, fully informed about procedures and techniques, and competent to perform their duties.


REFERENCES: 119.65(d), 121.367(b), 121.375

Safety Attribute: Procedures,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  3  1/5/2018 9:33:35 AM, 

QID: 00007415, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
13   
Do procedures exist in enough detail to meet the regulatory and guidance requirements for this element to produce the intended results?


Safety Attribute: Procedures,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121") ,  Rev.  1  3/13/2018 11:30:19 AM, 

QID: 00051912, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
14   
Does the maintenance program (CAMP) include procedures that ensure adequate equipment is provided for the proper performance of maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alterations?


REFERENCES: 121.367(b), 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 20

Safety Attribute: Controls,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  1  5/14/2014 10:51:14 AM, 

QID: 00007382, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
15   
Do the procedures ensure that personnel use the tools, equipment, and test apparatus necessary to complete the work according to accepted industry practices?


REFERENCES: 121.367(b), 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 20

Safety Attribute: Controls,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  1  5/14/2014 10:51:14 AM, 

QID: 00007383, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
16   
Do the procedures ensure, if special equipment or a test apparatus is recommended by the manufacturer, personnel use the recommended equipment, apparatus, or an equivalent acceptable to the Administrator?


REFERENCES: 121.367(b), 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 20

Safety Attribute: Controls,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  1  5/14/2014 10:51:14 AM, 

QID: 00007384, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
17   
Do the procedures identify all equipment that must be periodically inspected and calibrated?


REFERENCES: 8900.1 Vol 3 Ch 15 Sec 1, 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 17, 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 20

Safety Attribute: Controls,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  2  5/21/2014 10:28:27 PM, 

QID: 00007385, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
18   
Do the procedures include instructions to control all test equipment (ownership, lease, etc.) that will be used by the Operator?


REFERENCES: 8900.1 Vol 3 Ch 15 Sec 1, 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 17

Safety Attribute: Controls,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  1  5/14/2014 10:51:14 AM, 

QID: 00007386, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
19   
Do the procedures ensure that:

      #1 Automatic Test Equipment /BITE testing programs provide an in-depth analysis that ensures the aircraft components are functionally tested within the prescribed manufacturer's limits; and
      #2 All required checks are accomplished when using Automatic Test Equipment /BITE testing?

REFERENCES: 8900.1 Vol 3 Ch 15 Sec 1, 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 17

Safety Attribute: Controls,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  2  5/21/2014 10:28:29 PM, 

QID: 00007391, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
20   
Do the procedures include instructions to ensure that whenever a BITE examination is substituted for a manual check, it performs the required qualitative and quantitative tests and analyses to substantiate the component and/or system performance?


REFERENCES: 8900.1 Vol 3 Ch 15 Sec 1

Safety Attribute: Controls,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  1  5/14/2014 10:51:14 AM, 

QID: 00007401, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
21   
Do the procedures include instructions to ensure that when using/approving BITE as a substitute for actual manual checks, the self-check is of sufficient depth to perform the required task?


REFERENCES: 8900.1 Vol 3 Ch 15 Sec 1

Safety Attribute: Controls,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  1  5/14/2014 10:51:14 AM, 

QID: 00007402, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
22   
Do the procedures include instructions to ensure that the analysis of BITE includes the limitations and shows whether it checks the component and its associated plugs and wiring?


REFERENCES: 8900.1 Vol 3 Ch 15 Sec 1

Safety Attribute: Controls,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  1  5/14/2014 10:51:14 AM, 

QID: 00007403, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
23   
Do the procedures include instructions to ensure that the limitations, parameters, and reliability of the equipment allow it to function equivalently to the OEM's recommended equipment for the specific test application?


REFERENCES: 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 20

Safety Attribute: Controls,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  1  5/14/2014 10:51:14 AM, 

QID: 00007405, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
24   
Does the manual include procedures that ensure test and inspection equipment are calibrated to an acceptable FAA standard?


REFERENCES: 121.369(b), 8900.1 Vol 3 Ch 15 Sec 1, 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 11 Sec 17, 8900.1 Vol 6 Ch 2 Sec 26

NOTE: Calibration criteria must be traceable to one of the following: -The NIST; -Standards established by the item’s manufacturer; or -If foreign-manufactured, the standards of the country where manufactured, if approved by the Administrator.

Safety Attribute: Controls,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121" ) ,  Rev.  2  2/4/2015 2:50:24 PM, 

QID: 00007408, Response Details: EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
◯  Not Applicable
25   
Do controls exist within this element that ensure risks are reduced to an acceptable level?


REFERENCES: 5.53, 5.55, 5.51

Safety Attribute: Controls,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121") ,  Rev.  2  3/8/2019 12:47:45 PM, 

QID: 00051913, Response Details: Controls ED/EP/SP DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
26   
Does the certificate holder have a method to evaluate the impact of changes on related processes (interfaces) for this element?


Safety Attribute: Interfaces,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121") ,  Rev.  2  3/8/2019 12:47:45 PM, 

QID: 00051914, Response Details: Interfaces ED/EP/SP DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No
27   
Does the process design require that individuals understand their safety role and how it contributes to the safety performance of this element?


REFERENCES: 5.23(a), 5.91, 5.93

Safety Attribute: Safety Ownership,  Question Type: Output Validation,  

Scoping Attribute:  (FAR PART = "121") ,  Rev.  2  3/8/2019 12:47:46 PM, 

QID: 00051918, Response Details: Safety Ownership ED/EP/SP DCTs (Both OP and AW),  Status: Released
◯  Yes
◯  No


Response Details List  Authority ED/EP/SP DCTs (Both OP and AW) (Released, 1.0)
1 Process oversight failure
2 Unacceptable safety risk acceptance
3 Ineffective planning of resources
4 Ineffective use of resources
5 Ineffective control of resources
6 Failure to implement safety risk processes
7 Process owner not clearly identified
8 Unqualified
9 Other
Response Details List  Controls ED/EP/SP DCTs (Both OP and AW) (Released, 1.0)
1 Failure to identify hazards or ineffective risk controls
2 Failure to develop and maintain risk controls
3 Failure to effectively mitigate risk before applying risk controls
4 Risk controls ineffective
5 Unclear risk controls
6 Failure to assess risk for a new system
7 Failure to assess risk when revising an existing system
8 Failure to assess risk when developing operational procedures
9 Failure to maintain records of outputs of risk control assessments
10 Other
Response Details List  EP & ED DCTs (Both OP and AW) (Released, 1.0)
1 Unclear procedure(s)
2 Conflicting procedure(s)
3 Used workaround(s)
4 Skipped process step(s)
5 Personnel failed to follow process (procedures, guidance, etc)
6 Procedures/guidance not available
7 Procedures/guidance not current
8 Inconsistent procedure(s)
9 Undocumented procedure(s)
10 Minor typographical error(s) (i.e. record entries)
11 Information missing
12 Communication failure(s)
13 Personnel failed to perform task
14 Process failed to meet desired outcome
15 Process oversight failure
16 Equipment/tools not available
17 Equipment/tools not adequate
18 Equipment/tools not calibrated
19 Facilities not adequate
20 Other
Response Details List  Interfaces ED/EP/SP DCTs (Both OP and AW) (Released, 1.0)
1 Internal communication failure(s)
2 External communication failure(s)
3 Lack of interfaces
4 Inconsistent interfaces
5 Poor coordination between departments and employees
6 Failure of interfaces between processes or procedures
7 Other
Response Details List  Process Measurement ED/EP/SP DCTs (Both OP and AW) (Released, 1.0)
1 Inadequate monitoring of operations processes
2 Ineffective evaluations of processes or systems
3 Undocumented or insufficient investigations
4 Failure to conduct audits
5 Ineffective audits
6 Failure to detect changes in the operational environment
7 Personnel failed to perform/follow process (procedures, guidance, etc.)
8 Process failed to meet desired outcome
9 Process oversight failure
10 Other
Response Details List  Responsibility ED/EP/SP DCTs (Both OP and AW) (Released, 1.0)
1 Failed to provide financial resources
2 Failed to provide sufficient human resources
3 Individual not clearly identified
4 Failure to ensure safety of process
5 Failure to oversee operations conducted under the certificate
6 Failed to ensure quality performance of process
7 Process oversight failure
8 Communication failure(s)
9 Other
Response Details List  N/A Response Detail (Released, 2.0)
1 Not applicable or authorized for the certificate holder or applicant
2 Other
Response Details List  Safety Ownership ED/EP/SP DCTs (Both OP and AW) (Released, 3.0)
1 Unaware of or ineffective safety policies or processes
2 Unaware of or ineffective safety related reporting tools
3 Unclear safety policy
4 Ineffective safety related training
5 Lack of safety culture
6 Unclear safety objectives
7 Other