Consider all the essential elements which we need to deliver an effective Aviation Store.
The basic EASA requirement is identified here – EASA AMC 145.A.25(d) Facility requirements:
1. Storage facilities for serviceable aircraft components should be clean, well ventilated and maintained at a constant dry temperature to minimise the effects of condensation. Manufacturer’s storage recommendations should be followed for those aircraft components identified in such published recommendations.
2. Storage racks should be strong enough to hold aircraft components and provide sufficient support for large aircraft components such that the component is not distorted during storage.
3. All aircraft components, wherever practicable, should remain packaged in protective material to minimise damage and corrosion during storage.
To consider what is required in details for our “Ideal” Store:
General Storage Conditions – The conditions of storage of aircraft supplies are important. The premises should be laid out in an ergonomic way, we should also consider the health and safety of our workers and take note of the lifting regulations and the need to be especially careful when working at heights over 2 metres.
Goods Receipt Area – Adequate space to fully examine the material and parts which are arriving- ability to be able to move the product easily through the area in the most effective way (avoiding back tracking where ever possible).
ESDS Inspection Facility – Typically we will leave ESDS items in their protective packaging, never the less we must have the capability to safely inspect in details
Ventilation – Natural Ventilation is best but it is not always possible. Even when there is no natural ventilation there should be adequate ventilation to make sure there can be no build-up of any fumes if ever a product was spilled for example.
Humidity – The facility should be maintained at an even dry temperature to minimise the effects of condensation, note that in many instances the manufacturer will specify the temperature and relative humidity in which the products should be stored.
To ensure that these conditions are maintained within the specified range, instruments are used which measure the temperature and relative humidity of the store room.
Temperature and Relative Humidity When required, the temperature and humidity should be checked at regular intervals by means of a hygrometer which measures the amount of humidity in the atmosphere.
The wall-type of hygrometer is normally used and consists of wet and dry ‘bulbs’; the dry bulb records the actual temperature, and a comparison between this reading and that registered by the wet bulb, when read in conjunction with a table, will indicate the percentage of relative humidity present in the atmosphere.
Racks and Storage Bins
Racks and Bins
Open racks allow a free circulation of air and are preferable when the nature of the stock permits their use. Note – The painted metal type of bins is more suitable than the wooden type, since with the latter there is a risk of corrosion due to mould or dampness.
Polyethylene, rigid PVC, corrugated plastics or cardboard bins may also be used. Many moulded plastics bins can also be fitted with removable dividers which will allow for the segregation of small parts whilst making economic use of the space.
Normal Stock Rotation
Typical we should work with the philosophy of First In First out (FIFO) means we always use the oldest stock first. This is of course highly relevant for perishable goods, instruments and other components which have definite storage limiting periods.
Shelf Life
Shelf life may affect both parts and materials. Where a part has a specific shelf life, we are expected to clearly mark the part and to ensure it is no longer made available when the shelf life expires. This requires a shelf life management system where items are controlled and removed (or ideally used) before there due date.
Some examples of material which have limited shelf life include Aircraft Wheel Assemblies, Solvents, Sealants, Adhesives, Packings ( 0-rings), and other Rubber Products, also Safety Equipment.
Identifying Shelf life is one of the duties of the Stores Receiving Inspector so it is important that the Inspector has the necessary competence to understand where the Shelf life information comes from whether it is specific from manufacture’s documentation – or generic from best practice.
This is an abridged document taken from the following Training: Logistics & Stores Inspection Procedures EASA – 3 Days
For additional details please see www.sassofia.com or email office@sassofia.com
