MEC Safety, Health and Security Committee
The MEC Safety, Health and Security Committee has been engaged with the company related to our post-flight Cabin Sweep (aka “Double Check”). Much of this discussion has been related to ensuring that all passengers have deplaned prior to the Flight Attendant crew deplaning the aircraft themselves. Last week, the Committee joined Inflight Safety to conduct some observations in order to identify where human factors and other operational factors may impact our ability to complete the sweep as outlined in the SOP.
An incomplete sweep can lead to an FAA minimum crew violation if the crew deplanes the aircraft and any passenger remains on board. This is one of the greatest risks, and the primary focus of our Committees’ discussion with Inflight Safety. Even the simplest distraction or loss of focus due to external factors can result in us missing a passenger asleep in their seat or one in the lavatory. It’s that easy. While the focus is on ensuring all passengers are off the aircraft before we deplane, all components of the sweep, especially ensuring all doors are disarmed, are critical.
One concern we have continued to bring forward is the presence of cabin cleaners onboard and throughout the aircraft at a time where Flight Attendants are trying to conduct the sweep. It has become more routine for cleaners to board the aircraft during passenger deplaning, potentially obstructing our view or creating an inadvertent distraction. While we continue to express concern over this risk to the company, it’s critical to pay even more attention to the seat groups and corresponding floor areas of, and around, seats where cabin cleaners are positioned to ensure there are no passengers still onboard the aircraft while conducting the sweep. Cleaners should have a reflective vest and badge visible while onboard the aircraft. To ensure a passenger is not mistaken for a cleaner or other ground employee, challenge anyone without a visible badge while conducting the sweep.
While we continue to collaborate with Inflight to identify any areas where the cabin sweep SOP can be improved upon, if you have any ideas or concerns related to the cabin sweep, please bring those forward to your Local AFA Safety, Health and Security Committee or by filing an ISAP report for review.