Break in markings
 

Guys,

I have noticed recently that aircraft no longer seem to have the break in markings for the firemen to cut in to the fuselage safely. I recall that these marking used to be part of the CofA renewal checks. Has the requirement for these markings been removed?

Thank you

UK wise, IIRC there was no requirement for Break In markings, but if they were used the regulation stipulated how they should look.

Thank you, I have found eh answer to my question. There is no CS25 requirement to actually have the areas marked. However if you do wish to have them marked then they must be marked correctly. The reference on how they should be marked is in ICAO Annex 6 Part 1 and Part Ops CAT.IDE.A.260. So no legal requirement to have them marked but if you do mark them then how you mark them is specified.

And how are the emergency service supposed to know where they are if they are not marked ?

Manufacturers do provide documentation specifically for fire/rescue services (ARFF), that shows the break-in or cut-in areas. And additional information.

Boeing: http://www.boeing.com/assets/pdf/com.../arff/arff.pdf

Embraer: http://www.embraer.com/en-US/Fly/Gro...neage_1000.pdf

IIRC back in the 80s the UK required break in markings on transport aircraft over 3600kg. as opposed to 5700kg for lots of other rules.
I remember trying to find out where they should be on Citations and King Airs.

Great to see how the EASA rules are enhancing safety....

Cannot see how this comment can be applied to EASA. Regulations are normally published to apply an ICAO Standard. The note to ICAO Standard Annex 6 Part I Para 6.2.4 Marking of break-in points specifies

"Note.— This Standard does not require any aeroplane to have break-in areas."

EASA regs reflect the ICAO standard.

What?

Having specific fuselage points specifically designated for emergency cutting is not a Part 21 design requirement. If the aircraft does have such points then these must be marked in accordance with Part CAT operational requirements, in line with ICAO standards.

All manufacturers also produce various manuals and procedures for airport and emergency services use, for example Airbus Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Manual.

Aircraft Rescue & Firefighting Charts | Airbus, Commercial Aircraft