Speaker
Description
The I35NA infrasound station located in Tsumeb, Namibia was certified in 2005. Gradual improvement in skills development through CTBTO training programs and the introduction of the operation and maintenance plans improved the general operations and understanding of the infrasound station. However, the health of the station was in for a rude awaking when a change in senior management in 2017, aging and obsolete equipment in 2018, staff morale in 2019, the weather and COVID restrictions in 2020 lead to the collapse and inability to remain mission capable of the I35NA station. Inexperience on a senior management level frustrated and clashed with a well trained and experienced operational staff. Failing equipment. above average rainfall flooded vaults and the COVID lockdowns complicated response and support. A committed group of people, thousands of kilometres apart, locked up in their homes, worked together to bring the I35NA station back to life and return it to mission capability. It is safeguarding the verification regime. Lessons are shared when things go wrong and what is required to motivate and encourage people to still give their best. The I35NA station is one of the casualties in 2020, but the experiences must be shared.
Promotional text
Failures produces lessons learned and improves overall system management and performance
