Tag Archives: standard operating procedures

Aircraft Ramp Safety Practices in NJ That Help Prevent Risks

5 August 2025   General Ramp Safety

Aircraft ramp safety is always a focus at Monmouth Executive Airport, NJ. We are committed to risk management practices that ensure passengers, pilots, crew, staff, and visitors enjoy a safe and efficient airport environment. Did you know Monmouth Executive Airport is a low-traffic Class G airport that accommodates large private jets, helicopters, and piston aircraft? We are only one hour’s drive from downtown Manhattan!  

Join us as we discuss airport ramps, why ramp safety training is critical, and the role of PPE in preventing injuries on aircraft ramps. We also share more about the ramp operations available from Monmouth Jet Center, our FBO.

What Is an Airport Ramp and Who Works There?

Airport ramps are congested areas where arriving and departing aircraft are serviced. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) use the formal term “apron” rather than “ramp”, which is the unofficial description used throughout the industry. Ramp operation services include: 

  • Transport of passengers and crew to and from an aircraft
  • Baggage and cargo handling
  • Refueling
  • Maintenance
  • Cleaning
  • Toilet and potable water servicing
  • Catering.

The people working at airport ramps are as diverse as the services offered. You will find ramp agents, baggage handlers, aircraft mechanics, and fire and emergency personnel working on the apron or on standby. Ramp areas are relatively small and tend to be overcrowded with large numbers of people utilizing equipment under considerable time pressure. It increases the risk of injuries and craft or equipment damage.

Why Ramp Safety Training Is Critical for Every Ground Crew

Ramps are crowded with aircraft, vehicles, and personnel, while hazardous substances such as fuel and servicing products are always present. Safety risks are easily missed when ground crews focus on maintaining a schedule to ensure flights depart on time. Aircraft ramp safety is enhanced with thorough planning, regular risk assessments, and continuous ground crew training.    

There are several reasons why ramp safety training is critical, but the primary one is accident and injury prevention. A safe ground crew maintains operational efficiency and avoids accidents caused by jet blast, moving aircraft, and vehicle or equipment collisions. The Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS) offers practical “lessons learned” that can be used to develop situational awareness, which is a life-saving skill. 

Lessons in the July 2025 ASRS newsletter Caution: Hazardous Ramp Operations covers several incidents, including a pilot who exited a small aircraft to retrieve something from the baggage compartment without shutting it down, and a fueler who walked 6-7 feet in front of a large airplane’s running engine.

The Role of Personal Protective Equipment Use in Preventing Injuries   

The Occupational Safety and Health Act has a general duty clause that requires employers to provide employees with a workplace free from recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious physical harm. Personal protective equipment (PPE) plays a vital role in fulfilling this requirement. Employees must receive PPE appropriate to their jobs and training in the proper use and care of their safety equipment. 

Let’s look at two basic PPE items used by aircraft ramp workers and their role in preventing injuries.  

High-visibility clothing

Hi-vis PPE makes workers more visible to vehicle operators and other personnel in all weather conditions.

Hearing protection

Hearing damage is irreversible. Protection is required as noise levels are above 85 dB(A) on airport ramps when aircraft engines and auxiliary power units (APUs) are operational.

Ramp Operations and SOPs at Facilities Like Monmouth Jet Center

FBOs such as Monmouth Jet Center play a critical role in maintaining safety across the entire airport environment. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) for our ramp operations are routinely reviewed by management teams to ensure they comply with national and international standards. What FBO services, available 24/7, can you expect at Monmouth Executive Airport?

  • Fuel, including Avgas and Jet A
  • De-icing
  • Ground power unit (GPU)
  • On-field aircraft maintenance
  • Aircraft cleaning and detailing
  • Catering
  • Concierge service
  • Limousine and taxi services
  • Crew lounge.

Make Monmouth Executive Airport (ICAO: KBLM, FAA: BLM) your airport of choice for a safe, private, and efficient experience. Our teams consistently engage in aircraft ramp safety practices that help prevent risks. Contact us today for more information on our services or visit us at: https://monmouthjetcenter.com/