This article was published in the January 2018 edition of NTEA News.
Ambulance Manufacturers Division (AMD), an NTEA affiliate since 1986, consists of ambulance, rescue and emergency vehicle, and related emergency apparatus and equipment manufacturers. The group strives to grow and enhance its market segment; gain and share details on emergency vehicle functionality; build connections with other industry segments; encourage product innovation; and support progress of industry safety requirements and programs.
AMD plans to address many initiatives in the next few years within the emergency vehicle and medical services industries, including continued occupant and vehicle safety research, criteria advancements and execution with partners such as National Association of State EMS Officials (NASEMSO) and governmental organizations like National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), General Services Administration (GSA), National Institute of Standards and Technology, and Department of Homeland Security. AMD members also participate in ambulance and related standards committees of SAE International, National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS) and ASTM International.
Ten new recommended practices have been developed and published since 2010 through SAE International under the safety research program collaboration with NIOSH, delivering advanced test methodologies for ambulance patient compartment seating and restraints, patient litters and restraints, and equipment mounts. AMD coordinates with other industry organizations to integrate the SAE documents in future ambulance standards versions. GSA has led the industry in incorporating the new SAE documents, working with other governmental agencies and the industry to oversee purchase specifications to facilitate this adjustment.
Division members serve on NASEMSO committees for ambulance vehicle licensing and state inspection criteria, which is mutually beneficial to both groups.
If your company is interested in joining AMD, visit ntea.com/amd or contact Steve Spata, NTEA technical assistance director, at steves@ntea.com.