Enhancing Airport Safety

Replacing Over 250 (ATEX-certified) Manual Call Points at Aircraft Fuel Supply (AFS) refuelling operation.

Aircraft Fuel Supply at Schiphol contacted Dexter to discuss replacing over 250 explosion proof Manual Call Points (MCPs) that had been in service for over 10 years.

By analyzing serial numbers, Dexter identified the oldest units and scheduled a replacement plan to ensure optimum safety and performance for the next decade and beyond.

The Role of Manual Call Points in refueling operations

Manual Call Points, also known as emergency break glass units or red fire alarm call points, play a critical role in ensuring safety in the operation. They are essential components of the (fire) alarm system, allowing individuals to manually trigger an alarm in the event of a fire or other emergency. This immediate alert is crucial in any operation at an airport (or elsewhere) where rapid response times ensure the safety of staff, infrastructure and passengers.

In airports, MCPs are strategically placed in accessible locations throughout terminals, hangars, and other facilities, in this case in the refuelling company’s operations. Their presence ensures that anyone who detects a fire or hazardous situation can quickly alert emergency services, facilitating a swift and coordinated response.

In this case, the break glass units needed to be explosion proof for hazardous area operations. Despite a higher flashpoint than gasoline, aviation fuel is still a flammable liquid, so ATEX compliant MCPs are used to ensure that they cannot be the source of an ignition.

Importance of Maintenance and Scheduled Replacement of Explosion proof Manual Call Points

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Over time, even the most reliable safety equipment can degrade due to environmental factors, wear and tear, and technological advancements. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of MCPs are essential to ensure they function correctly when needed. The recent project undertaken by Dexter highlights the importance of proactive safety measures in maintaining the integrity of safety systems within airport perimeters.

By replacing over 250 flameproof call points that had been in service for over a decade, Dexter ensured that the fire alarm system remains robust and reliable in the refuelling business’ operations. This replacement project involved a thorough analysis of serial numbers to identify the oldest units, followed by a carefully planned schedule to replace them with new, SIL2 rated manual call points. This approach not only enhances safety but also ensures compliance with the latest safety standards and regulations.