The Ambulance Manufacturers Division (AMD) is providing notice that it has revised AMD Standardized Test Methods (STM) for 2024.
Formerly known as the AMD Standards, the STM document provides test procedures to validate specific performance requirements of governing standards that incorporate the use of these tests by reference. Such governing standards currently include the Federal Specification for the Star-of-Life Ambulance (KKK-A-1822), National Fire Protection Association 1900 Standard for Automotive Ambulances (NFPA 1900), Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services/Ground Vehicle Standard for Ambulances (CAAS/GVS), and BNQ 1013-110 (BNQ)
The STM document was last revised in 2019. Below is a short summary of some of the notable changes for the 2024 document.
- Placing the following document numbers in reserve status: AMD 004 (Litter Retention System Static Test), 013 (Weight Distribution Measurements), 014 (Engine Cooling System Test), 022 (Cold Engine Start Test) and 026 (Ambulance Emergency Lighting System Configuration).
- Grouping certain test methods into two categories for type testing, based on the effect of the OEM chassis on test results.
- Other changes involve minor clarifications within the test procedures and Annex.
The AMD is composed of manufacturers of ambulances, rescue and emergency vehicles, and related emergency apparatus and equipment. The organization works to expand and improve its market segment; acquire, preserve and disseminate information on the role of emergency vehicles; improve relationships with other industry segments; promote new product innovations; and assist in the development of industry safety standards and programs.