Conducting Safe Aircraft Refuel Service Operations
Has it ever entered you mind while you are at work to question why things are being done the way they are? We often wonder if the way we do things is the right and best way. The same is true with aircraft refueling when we see things being conducted the way they are and we wonder why, but this article will show why and that is to ensure safety and code compliance.
The first of all these requirements is that no one is allowed to conduct fueling operations except properly trained personnel. These personnel are not only trained on the proper use of fueling equipment, but they are also trained on the operation of emergency control and actions to be taken in the event of an emergency.
Both sides of fuel vehicles are to be marked with the name of the operator or responsible organization are required by safety standards. The type of fuel and associated hazards should also be properly placarded on the fuel trucks.
The procedures in the event of a spill are laid down in the following. It consists of three initial steps: activate emergency fuel shutoff, notify the supervisor, and initiate clean-up by trained personnel only. The airport fire rescue crew should be notified to respond if the spill is greater than 10 feet or more than 50 square feet, or if it presents an immediate hazard.
If an aircraft is being fueled, internal combustion engine vehicles should not be permitted within 50 feet of the aircraft. Around ten feet from the aircraft fuel vent system should be the position of the vehicle performing the fueling operations.
When an aircraft is being fueled, there should be no electrical equipment on the servicing ramp. To ensure safety, connected ground power units should be positioned far from fueling point and tank vents. Smoking is strictly prohibited and personnel are not allowed to carry lighters and matches on their person.
The distance between an aircraft being refueled to a hangar, service building, terminal or loading area should not be less than twenty five feet.
Each fueling vehicle is required to have a minimum of two fire extinguishers.
It is required that fuel servicing equipment be maintained in good working condition. It is important to ensure that all equipment are in proper usable condition, that is why it is necessary to conduct regular inspection, testing, and maintenance of the different system components.
The fuel system’s most important component is the fuel hose. A daily inspection of the fuel hose is necessary. The hose need to be extended to its full length so that proper personnel can inspect it for any cuts or nicks that can cause harm.
It is not only loss from fire that can be prevented by following these safety guideline for aircraft fuel servicing, but most importantly , it maintains the safety of the life of its employees and customers.
Source: aircraft refueling hose
