This European Standard specifies the technical requirements to minimise the hazards listed in clause 4 which can arise during the commissioning, the operation and the maintenance of catering vehicles when carried out in accordance with the specifications given by the manufacturer or his authorised representative. It also takes into account some requirements recognised as essential by authorities, aircraft and ground support equipment (GSE) manufacturers as well as airlines and handling agencies. This standard applies to self-propelled catering vehicles, with seated driver, equipped with a liftable van body. Examples of catering vehicles are shown in annex A. Vehicles of a similar design within the load limits of this standard used as GSE for other purposes e.g. cleaning equipment, exchange of aircraft seats, are also covered by this European Standard. This standard does not apply to pneumatic systems. This standard does not establish requirements for hazards caused by noise and vibration. This Part of EN 12312 is not applicable to catering vehicles which are manufactured before the date of publication of this standard by CEN.