A group of aviation industry stakeholders gathered at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) headquarters in Washington, D.C., to discuss ramp worker safety. The session was part of the FAA’s ongoing efforts to enhance safety for ramp workers, including cargo handlers, fuelers, loaders, caterers, marshallers, and maintenance personnel.
The forum aimed to identify hazards and explore innovative solutions by fostering collaboration and sharing best practices. The 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act required a review of airport ramp worker safety and strategies to reduce accidents.
Presentations were made by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, National Air Transportation Association, SAE Aeroengine Hazard Zone Committee, Flight Safety International, airports, airlines, and labor groups.
Discussions centered on operational safety, training needs, change management issues, incidents experienced by workers, and various perspectives on hazards faced by ramp workers. Attendees included representatives from organizations such as the National Air Carrier Association, Airlines for America, Nashville International Airport among others.
Feedback highlighted the importance of improving task scheduling for ramp workforces reassessing staffing requirements and ensuring appropriate training. The agency plans to evaluate these inputs against section 353 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 with an aim to further enhance ramp worker safety measures in future initiatives.
