EASA SIB 2024-02
Emergency Exit Safety Barriers Modification / Models Selection
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2024-02 is an airworthiness bulletin addressing emergency exit safety barriers on Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aircraft. It provides information on the different part numbers of safety barriers used during maintenance to prevent personnel from falling through open doors. The bulletin highlights concerns about the retention forces of certain upgraded barrier designs and introduces improved versions with enhanced nozzle ends.
What Changed
This bulletin informs operators that the original upgraded emergency exit safety barriers may not provide sufficient retention forces to prevent falls. It introduces improved upgraded barriers identified by a suffix 'Issue C' on the part numbers 98D52003009002 and 98D52003009003, which have been successfully tested for enhanced safety. It also clarifies the usability and procurement status of various barrier designs and recommends preferred part numbers for use.
Why It Matters
The bulletin is important for maintenance and safety personnel as it addresses a potential safety risk during maintenance operations involving open aircraft doors. Using the correct safety barrier ensures personnel protection and compliance with maintenance procedures. It helps operators avoid using barriers that may fail under load, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall maintenance safety.
What To Do
Operators are recommended to use either the retrofitted old barriers with part number 98D52003004002 or the improved upgraded barriers with part numbers 98D52003009002 Issue C or 98D52003009003 Issue C. These should be used in accordance with Airbus Tool Equipment Bulletins TEB_98D52003009002_2_M and TEB_98D52003009003_2_M. There are no mandatory requirements or airworthiness directives associated with this bulletin, and no compliance deadlines are specified.