ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of the implementation process of critical incident stress management (CISM) in the Air Navigation Services. It describes the special requirements for air traffic control in this field and explains the advantages of a peer-based program. Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs) realized the necessity of an established CISM program without having experienced a major accident, while others started with the implementation after the organization had dealt with a major accident. Deutsche Flugsicherung (DFS) started to plan and implement a CISM program for the operative personnel in 1997, mainly for the Air Traffic Controllers (ATCOs), but also for the flight data assistants and technicians. A comprehensive CISM program is required to help ATCOs deal with these Critical Incidents, which cannot or can only be barely dealt with by ATCOs on their own. During the initial phase, the CISM manager names people who will be responsible for the implementation and the establishment of the program.
