The International Center for
STAMP Certification and Accreditation (SCA)
Establishing certification requirements for proficiency in STAMP-based methods including STPA, STPA-sec, and CAST
What is STAMP, STPA, and CAST?
STAMP enables a systems approach to safety and security by applying systems thinking to better understand and control the complex causes of losses in large systems. The goal is to enable new tools and processes that use systems thinking to provide more comprehensive, more efficient, and more effective results. Ensuring safety and security in modern systems will require multi-disciplinary and collaborative techniques based on sound system engineering principles.
STAMP (System-Theoretic Accident Model and Processes) is a new accident causality model based on systems theory and systems thinking that addresses critical factors in safety and cybersecurity losses such as complex software, human-decision making and human factors, new technology, social and organizational design, and safety culture.
STPA (System-Theoretic Process Analysis) is a powerful technique for hazard analysis, system safety engineering, and cybersecurity that is based on the STAMP model.
CAST (Causal Analysis based on System Theory) is the equivalent for analysis of past accidents/incidents.
Free introductory STAMP, STPA, STPA-sec, and CAST tutorials are available:
http://psas.scripts.mit.edu/home/mit-stamp-workshop-tutorials/
MIT hosts an annual workshop for STAMP users and professionals, with presentation slides from many industries available for download:
http://psas.scripts.mit.edu/home/stamp-workshops/
Certification for Individuals
There are three levels of individual certification:
Practitioner
Facilitator
Instructor
Practitioner Certification
Practitioner Certification demonstrates that an individual has a basic STPA or CAST competency and understanding necessary to contribute effectively as a member of a core team that is lead by a qualified STPA or CAST facilitator.
To achieve this certification level, individuals must demonstrate completion of an accredited educational program. This includes a training component as well as a small STPA or CAST project that is reviewed by a certified instructor and satisfies the program requirements.
Practitioner certificates are provided upon the completion of an accredited educational program that meets the practitioner-level program requirements.
A list of accredited practitioner programs and certified practitioners is maintained by SCA to provide an independent means to verify accreditation and certification status.
Facilitator Certification
Facilitator Certification demonstrates that an individual has the necessary STPA or CAST skills and experience to lead a team of practitioners, including ability to identify and correct potential mistakes.
To achieve this certification level, a certified practitioner must demonstrate the necessary experience and skill in STPA or CAST. This includes a review of a candidate STPA or CAST results with a certified instructor and a "check ride" as an acting facilitator on an STPA or CAST project under the guidance of a certified instructor.
Facilitator certificates are provided by accredited facilitator programs that meet the facilitator-level program requirements.
A list of accredited facilitator programs and certified facilitators is maintained by SCA to provide an independent means to verify accreditation and certification status.
Instructor Certification
Instructor Certification demonstrates that an individual has the necessary STPA or CAST skills and experience to train future practitioners and facilitators.
To achieve this certification level, a certified facilitator must demonstrate the ability to effectively teach STPA or CAST. This includes a "check ride" as an acting instructor on an STPA or CAST program under the guidance of a certified instructor.
Instructor certificates are provided by accredited instructor programs that meet the instructor-level program requirements.
A list of accredited instructor programs and certified instructors is maintained by SCA to provide an independent means to verify accreditation and certification status.
Educational Accreditation
STAMP Certification reviews educational programs in STAMP and STAMP-based methods to provide program accreditation and to maintain a list of organizations with accredited education programs.
The accreditation review process examines a candidate educational program including:
Educational objectives and duration
Instructor qualifications
Prerequisites
Teaching outlines
Educational material
Exercises
Exams, quizzes, or other evaluation criteria
The review is conducted by the internationally recognized experts in STAMP and STAMP-based methods including the method founders.
Certification for Service Providers
Consulting companies and organizations that are qualified to provide STAMP-based services can receive certification. Separate certifications are provided for for STPA, CAST, and other STAMP-based techniques.
The review process for service providers includes a review of:
Organizational requirements for practitioner qualifications
Review of results from successful STAMP-related applications
Demonstrated successful proficiency on complex real-world projects
Independent or anonymous evaluations with past clients
The review is conducted by internationally recognized experts in STAMP and STAMP-based methods including the method founders.