AMC2 ARA.FSTD.100(a) Evaluation procedure

ASSESSMENT PROCESS LEADING TO THE ISSUE OF AN FSTD QUALIFICATION

(a) FSTDs require evaluation leading to qualification. The required process should be accomplished in two distinct steps. First, a check should be performed to determine whether or not the FSTD complies with the applicable requirements. When performing this check, the competent authority should ensure that accountability for the issue of an FSTD qualification is clearly defined. In all cases an individual department manager of the competent authority should be appointed under whose personal responsibility the issue of an FSTD qualification is to be considered. The second step should be the grant (or refusal) of an FSTD qualification.

(b) When checking compliance with the applicable requirements, the competent authority should ensure that the following steps are taken:

(1) An individual should be nominated by the department manager of the competent authority to oversee, and become the focal point for, all aspects of the FSTD qualification process, and to coordinate all necessary activity. The nominated person should be responsible to the department manager for confirming that all appropriate evaluations/inspections are made.

(2) The ability of the applicant to secure, in compliance with the applicable requirements and certification specifications, the safe and reliable operation and proper maintenance of the FSTD should be assessed.

(3) The applicant’s proposed management system should be scrutinised with particular regard to the allocated resources. Care should be taken to verify that the system is comprehensive and likely to be effective.

(4) The competent authority should inform the applicant of its final decision concerning the qualification within 14 days of completion of the evaluation process.

(5) On completion of the evaluation process, the application, together with a written recommendation and evidence of the result of all evaluations or assessments, should be presented to the nominated person responsible for FSTD qualification. The presentation should be made by the person with overall responsibility, nominated in accordance with (b)(1).

(6) The department manager of the competent authority should only issue an FSTD qualification certificate if he or she is completely satisfied that all requirements have been met. If he or she is not satisfied, the applicant should be informed in writing of the improvements that are required in order to satisfy the competent authority.

(7) If an application for an FSTD qualification is refused, the applicant should be informed of the rights of appeal that exist under national regulations.

[applicable from 30 April 2028 — ED Decision 2026/006/R]