Certification, SUBSAFE

In 1963, a SUBSAFE certification boundary was defined. Certification focuses on the structures, systems, and components that are critical to the watertight integrity and recovery capability of the submarine. 

Certification is also strictly based on what the SUBSAFE program defines as Objective Quality Evidence (OQE). OQE is defined as any statement of fact, either quantitative or qualitative, pertaining to the quality of a product or service, based on observations, measurements, or tests that can be verified. Probabilistic risk assessment, which usually cannot be verified, is not used. 

Each of these certification elements is defined by detailed, documented SUBSAFE requirements. 

At some point near the end of the new construction period, usually lasting five or so years, every submarine obtains its initial SUBSAFE certification. This process is very formal and preceded by scrutiny and audit conducted by the shipbuilder, the supervising authority, and finally, by a NAVSEA Certification Audit Team assembled and led by the Office of Safety and Quality Assurance at NAVSEA. The initial certification is in the end granted at the flag officer level. 

After the submarine enters the fleet, SUBSAFE certification must be maintained through the life of the slip. Three tools are used the Reentry Control (REC) Process, the Unrestricted Operations Maintenance Requirements Card (URO MRC) program, and the audit program. 

The responsibilities of Navy headquarters include establishing and specifying SUBSAFE requirements, verifying comphance with the requirements, and providing SUBSAFE certification for each submarine. Compliance is verified through two types of audits (1) ship-specific and (2) functional or facility audits. 

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