BS EN 12312-20:2005+A1:2009

What is BS EN 12312-20 - Aircraft ground support equipment about ?

BS EN 12312-20 specifies the technical requirements to minimize the hazards listed in Clause 4 which can arise during the commissioning, operation, and maintenance of ground power equipment when carried out in accordance with the specifications given by the manufacturer or his authorized representative.  

BS EN 12312-20 is intended to be used in conjunction with EN 1915-1, EN 1915-2, EN 1915-3 (for vehicles), and EN 1915-4. Noise and vibration are dealt with respectively in EN 1915-4 and EN 1915-3. 

Note 1: BS EN 12312-20 applies to:

• Ground power units either self-propelled or towable
• Ground power equipment when mounted on other GSE
• Ground power accessories intended for ground power equipment (including accessories for fixed equipment)

Note 2: BS EN 12312-20 does not apply to:

• The electrical characteristics of the supply, the type of power supply system and related measures against contact
• Any electrical supply system not intended for aircraft use
• The onboard electrical system of the aircraft

Note 3: BS EN 12312-20 does not establish requirements for noise and vibration. BS EN 12312-20 does not deal with hazards in respect to a standard automotive chassis and from other vehicles on the apron.

Who is BS EN 12312-20 - Aircraft ground support equipment for ?

BS EN 12312-20 on aircraft ground support equipment is useful for:  

• Spacecraft and space products manufacturers
• Aerospace products manufacturers
• Testing agencies involved in the inspection of spacecraft and aerospace products
• Quality control personnel for spacecraft products
• Aeronautical engineers
• Space researchers
• Servicemen of aircrafts
• Electrical engineers of aircraft systems

Why should you use BS EN 12312-20 - Aircraft ground support equipment ?

BS EN 12312-20 specifies health and safety requirements, as well as some functional and performance requirements for ground power equipment intended for the electrical supply for aircraft to be used on all aircraft types commonly in service in civil air transport. 

The minimum essential criteria are considered to be of primary importance in providing safe, serviceable, economical, and practical ground power equipment. Deviations from the recommended criteria should occur only after careful consideration, extensive testing. 

BS EN 12312-20 also takes into account some performance requirements recognized as essential by authorities, aircraft, and ground support equipment (GSE) manufacturers as well as airlines and service companies. 

With the help of BS EN 12312-20 guidelines, you will be able to ensure safe operations and maintenance of electrical ground power units used for civil aircraft.