Introduction

The airport ramp, or apron, is a high-traffic, high-risk operational area where the intricate dance of ground handling, fueling, maintenance, and aircraft movement occurs. Ramp Safety and Marshalling Procedures are absolutely critical to preventing accidents, minimizing operational disruptions, and safeguarding personnel, aircraft, and equipment in this dynamic environment. Even minor errors on the ramp can lead to significant financial losses, serious injuries, or even catastrophic incidents, underscoring the constant need for vigilance, adherence to standardized procedures, and effective communication. Mastering the nuances of ramp operations and precise aircraft marshalling is therefore essential for maintaining safety and efficiency in the heartbeat of the airport. This essential training course focuses on equipping aviation professionals with the expertise to excel in Ramp Safety and Marshalling Procedures.

This intensive training course is meticulously designed to empower ground handling personnel, ramp agents, pushback operators, baggage handlers, airline operations staff, and airport supervisors with the theoretical understanding and practical skills necessary to ensure safe and efficient ramp operations and accurate aircraft marshalling. Participants will gain a deep understanding of ramp hazards, learn standardized marshalling signals, and explore best practices for equipment operation and foreign object debris (FOD) prevention. The course will delve into topics such as aircraft parking procedures, ground support equipment (GSE) safety, communication protocols on the ramp, emergency response, and the role of human factors in ramp safety. By mastering the principles and methodologies of Ramp Safety and Marshalling Procedures, participants will be prepared to mitigate risks, enhance operational efficiency, and contribute to a safer working environment on the airport apron.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Ground Handling Agents (Ramp Agents, Loaders, Operators)
• Aircraft Marshallers
• Pushback/Tow Tug Operators
• Baggage Handlers
• Fuelling Crew
• Aircraft Maintenance Technicians and Engineers
• Airline Operations Staff (Ramp Coordination)
• Airport Operations Officers and Supervisors
• Quality Assurance and Safety Officers in Ground Handling
• New entrants to airport ground operations roles

Course Objectives

• Understand the critical importance of ramp safety and potential hazards in the apron area.
• Learn standardized aircraft marshalling signals and procedures for safe aircraft movement.
• Acquire proficiency in safe operation of Ground Support Equipment (GSE).
• Comprehend strategies for Foreign Object Debris (FOD) prevention and management.
• Explore techniques for effective communication and coordination on the ramp.
• Understand aircraft parking and securing procedures.
• Gain knowledge of emergency response protocols for ramp incidents.
• Develop a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risks in ramp operations.

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to the Airport Ramp Environment

• Overview of the airport apron/ramp: key areas and functions.
• Unique hazards of the ramp environment: moving aircraft, vehicles, jet blast, noise.
• Statistics and common causes of ramp accidents and incidents.
• Importance of a strong safety culture on the ramp.
• Roles and responsibilities of various personnel on the apron.

Module 2: Airside Driving and Vehicle Safety

• Regulations and procedures for driving on the airside.
• Airside driving permits and licensing requirements.
• Speed limits, right-of-way rules, and designated vehicle lanes.
• Safe operating procedures for various ground support equipment (GSE).
• Vehicle parking procedures and securing equipment.

Module 3: Aircraft Marshalling Procedures

• Introduction to standard marshalling signals (ICAO and airline specific).
• Hand signals for start-up, taxi, stop, and parking.
• Use of wands and personal protective equipment (PPE) for marshallers.
• Positioning and visibility requirements for marshallers.
• Communication with flight crew during marshalling.

Module 4: Aircraft Parking and Securing

• Safe and accurate aircraft parking procedures: nose-in, parallel, remote stands.
• Use of aircraft chocks and cones.
• Securing aircraft in adverse weather conditions (high winds).
• Fire prevention measures during parking and ground operations.
• Understanding aircraft types and their specific parking requirements.

Module 5: Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Safety

• Types of GSE: pushback tugs, baggage loaders, belt loaders, passenger stairs, catering trucks.
• Pre-use checks and safe operation of all GSE.
• Maintaining safe distances from aircraft and other equipment.
• Preventing collisions and damage to aircraft.
• Reporting GSE malfunctions or damage.

Module 6: Foreign Object Debris (FOD) Prevention and Control

• Definition and dangers of FOD (e.g., loose nuts, bolts, tools, baggage tags).
• Impact of FOD on aircraft engines, tires, and control surfaces.
• FOD walkdowns and inspection procedures.
• Maintaining a clean and organized ramp environment.
• Role of all personnel in FOD awareness and prevention.

Module 7: Ramp Communication and Coordination

• Standardized radio phraseology and communication protocols.
• Use of headsets and other communication devices on the ramp.
• Importance of clear, concise, and unambiguous communication.
• Coordination between ground handling teams, flight crew, and air traffic control.
• Communication during emergency situations on the ramp.

Module 8: Emergency Response and Risk Mitigation on the Ramp

• Procedures for responding to fuel spills, aircraft fires, and medical emergencies.
• Aircraft evacuation assistance from the ramp.
• Dealing with hazardous materials (HAZMAT) incidents on the apron.
• Identifying potential risks and implementing mitigation strategies.
• Continuous training, drills, and incident reporting for ramp safety improvement.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training