Bsi bs au 223a 2006 (2011)

BS AU 223a:2006

BRITISH STANDARD

Design, construction
performance and
marking of vehicle
support stands for cars
and light vans –
Specification
ICS 43.100; 43.180

Confirmed
December 2011

NO COPYING WITHOUT BSI PERMISSION EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW


BS AU 223a:2006
Publishing and copyright information
The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the
document was last issued.
© BSI 2006
ISBN 0 580 49626 0
The following BSI references relate to the work on this standard:
Committee reference AUE/9
Draft for comment 06/30142579 DC

Publication history
First published February 1988
Second edition July 1995

Third (present) edition November 2006

Amendments issued since publication
Amd. no.

Date

Text affected


BS AU 223a:2006

Contents
Foreword ii
1
2
3
4
5
6
7

Scope 1
Normative references 1
Terms and definitions 1
Construction and design 1
Structural integrity and factor of safety 3
Marking 5
Warning notice 5

Annexes
Annex A (normative) Classification of vehicles according to the
Commission of the European Communities (EEC/Brussels) 7
Annex B (normative) Test method for the determination of stability 7
Annex C (normative) Test method for structural integrity of the
engagement head 10
Annex D (normative) Overload test method 11
Annex E (normative) Test method for permanence of marking 13
List of figures
Figure 1 – Typical vehicle support stands 4
Figure 2 – Projected plan area of typical engagement head 5
Figure 3 – Examples of pictograms used to give warning 6
Figure B.1 – Loading for stability test 9
Figure C.1 – Location of test rod over point Q on a typical engagement
head 11
Figure D.1 – Location of test rod over axis on a typical engagement
head 12

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover,
pages i and ii, pages 1 to 13 and a back cover.
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BS AU 223a:2006

Foreword
Publishing information

This British Standard was published by BSI and came into effect
on 30 November 2006. It was prepared by Technical Committee
AUE/9, Automobile details and accessories. A list of organizations
represented on this committee can be obtained on request to its
secretary.

Supersession
This British Standard supersedes BS AU 223a:1995, which is
withdrawn.

Information about this document
This British Standard establishes a safe standard of performance for
vehicle support stands and to ensure that they are sufficiently robust so
that under normal use they do not fail. The standard also aims to ensure
that the vehicle support stands are constructed and designed so that
they are stable and do not damage the vehicle when used in the intended
manner.
It constitutes a technical revision undertaken to specify requirements
concerning stability and improve and clarify other areas arising from
the application of the first edition, which fails to address certain aspects
of some products which are now in circulation. It also aims to take
account of changes in the common method of use resulting from current
vehicle design.
Product certification/inspection/testing. Users of this British
Standard are advised to consider the desirability of third-party
certification/inspection/testing of product conformity with this
British Standard. Users seeking assistance in identifying appropriate
conformity assessment bodies or schemes may ask BSI to forward their
enquiries to the relevant association.

Presentational conventions
The provisions of this standard are presented in roman (i.e. upright)
type. Its requirements are expressed in sentences in which the principal
auxiliary verb is “shall”.
Commentary, explanation and general informative material is
presented in smaller italic type, and does not constitute a
normative element.

Contractual and legal considerations
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions
of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity
from legal obligations.

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BS AU 223a:2006

1 Scope
This British Standard specifies requirements for the design,
construction, performance and marking of vehicle support stands for
cars and light vans.

2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the
application of this document. For dated references, only the edition
cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
BS EN 228:1993, Specification for unleaded petrol (gasoline) for

motor vehicles

3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this British Standard, the following terms and
definitions apply.

3.1

vehicle support stand

device of fixed or adjustable height on which an appropriate part,
e.g. axle, chassis, of a raised vehicle is supported
NOTE Where the device has an adjustable height, the height is not
intended to be varied when the device is loaded. Some examples of typical
vehicle support stands are illustrated in Figure 1.

3.2

vehicle

passenger car or passenger car derivative of classification M1 or N1.
A towed unit such as a caravan or a trailer of classification O1 or O2
NOTE See Annex A for the definitions of these vehicle categories.

3.3

3.4

rated capacity (SWL or Safe Working Load)

capacity rated by the manufacturer as the maximum load that is to be
supported by a single vehicle support stand at all times

tee section tool

device used in conjunction with the test rig, to replicate the sill of a
vehicle; used to impose a test load upon the support stand being
examined
NOTE See Figure B.1.

4 Construction and design
4.1

Construction
There shall be a minimum area of 5 000 mm2 in contact with the ground
to avoid instability due to sinking.

4.2

Clearance
There shall be a minimum clearance of 25 mm between the bottom of
the upper column at its lowest possible setting and the ground.

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BS AU 223a:2006
4.3

Capacity
The rated capacity of a vehicle support stand shall be not less
than 1 000 kg, and not more than 2 000 kg.

4.4

Engagement head
The engagement head of a vehicle support stand shall:
a) have a projected plan area of at least 3 000 mm2 (see Figure 2);
and
b) be of such a shape as to provide positive retention of the imposed
load.
When raised to the maximum height required by the test procedure
given in Annex B, there shall be a total lateral movement of the
engagement head of not more than 10 mm.

4.5

Height adjustment mechanism
Where a vehicle support stand incorporates a means of adjusting its
height, the height adjustment mechanism shall conform to a) to c),
and d) if applicable.
a) It shall be permanently attached to the stand.
NOTE For a stand with a pin type adjustment, the pin is to be
attached to the stand by means of a metal linkage, e.g. chain or
flexible wire.

b) It shall be capable of easy and positive adjustment when the stand
is not loaded.
c) With the stand on a horizontal base it shall not be possible to
operate the height adjustment mechanism with a direct force of
less than 100 N or a torque of less than 30 N·m when a vertical
force of 1 000 N is applied through the centre of the engagement
head.
d) If it is possible to use the stand incorrectly assembled, it shall
conform to c) when tested incorrectly assembled.

4.6

Finish
Surfaces shall not have any hazardous projections.
All sharp edges shall be removed by rounding, bevelling, or other means
of deburring to prevent injury to the operator.

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BS AU 223a:2006

5 Structural integrity and factor of
safety
5.1

Structural integrity of the engagement head
When tested in accordance with Annex C, a vehicle support stand
engagement head shall sustain a force equal to 110% of the rated
capacity for a minimum period of 60 s with no breakage or fracture.

NOTE Permanent deformation of the engagement head is permitted so
long as the engagement head is capable of supporting the load applied.

5.2
5.2.1

Stability test
Vertically imposed load
When tested by the method described in Annex B, the vehicle support
stand shall not break, fracture, or become permanently deformed, and
shall remain stable for a minimum period of 60 s, after a vertical
load (Lv) equivalent to 110% of the rated capacity has been achieved.
After the stipulated test period, the load (Lv) shall be removed and the
vehicle support stand examined for defects or potential failure. If the
support stand is in good condition, the same sample shall be used for
the rotational resistance test (5.2.2).
NOTE Minor deformation might occur at the point of contact of the tee
section tool and is permissible.

5.2.2

Rotational resistance
Subsequent to the test described in 5.2.1 a rotational force (Lr) equal
to 10% of Lv is to be applied (via the tee tool) to the same test sample,
the vehicle support stand shall not break, fracture, or become
permanently deformed, and shall remain stable for a minimum period
of 60 s

5.3

Overload test
When tested in accordance with Annex D, a vehicle support stand shall
withstand a load of twice the rated capacity with no sign of breakage
or fracture.
Some deformation is permitted but the overall height of the stand
(as measured in D.3.7) shall not reduce by more than 1%.

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BS AU 223a:2006
Figure 1

Typical vehicle support stands

a) Fixed height type

b) Pin type

c) Screw type

d) Ratchet type

e) Folding type

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BS AU 223a:2006

6 Marking
Each vehicle support stand shall be permanently marked with the
following information.
a) The number of this British Standard, i.e. BS AU 223a:19951).
b) A manufacturer’s mark as a means of identifying the manufacturer,
importer or other supplier of the stand.
c)

The rated capacity stated as “SWL” in kilograms.

All such markings shall be legible when tested in accordance with
Annex E.

7 Warning notice
A warning notice shall be attached to each vehicle support stand giving
at least the following warnings.
a) Use only as specified by the manufacturer.
b) Use no more than a single pair of stands.
c)

Use on a hard, level surface, e.g. concrete.

d) Securely chock wheels remaining on the ground.
e)

Make sure that each stand is securely located under a strong point

on the vehicle; consult the vehicle manufacturer’s handbook for
guidance.

f)

Exercise extra care when using a three wheeled vehicle or a trailer.

g) Upper and lower columns are to be used only as a pair as supplied.
NOTE Use of pictograms to support the above warnings is recommended.
See Figure 3 as an example.

Figure 2

Projected plan area of typical engagement head

1)

Marking BS AU 223a:2006 on or in relation to a product represents a
manufacturer’s declaration of conformity, i.e. a claim by or on behalf of the
manufacturer that the product meets the requirements of the standard. The
accuracy of the claim is solely the claimant’s responsibility. Such a declaration
is not to be confused with third-party certification of conformity.
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BS AU 223a:2006

Figure 3

Examples of pictograms used to give warning

CORRECT

CORRECT

STAGE 1

STAGE 2A

INCORRECT

CORRECT

STAGE 2B

INCORRECT

CORRECT
Always chock wheels
that remain on ground

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BS AU 223a:2006
Annex A (normative)

Classification of vehicles according to
the Commission of the European
Communities (EEC/Brussels)
Category M Motor vehicles with at least four wheels used for the
carriage of passengers.
Category M1 Vehicles used for the carriage of passengers and
comprising no more than eight seats in addition to the
driver’s seat.
Category N Motor vehicles with at least four wheels used for the
carriage of goods.
Category N1 Vehicles used for the carriage of goods and having a
maximum mass not exceeding 3.5 tonnes.
Category O Trailers (including semi-trailers).
Category O1 Trailers with a maximum mass not exceeding 0.75 tonnes.
Category O2 Trailers with a maximum mass not exceeding 3.5 tonnes.
NOTE These definitions of vehicle category are also used, with very
slight editorial differences, by the UN Economic Commission for Europe
(ECE/Geneva).

Annex B (normative)

B.1

Test method for the determination of
stability
Principle
The vehicle support stand is loaded with the base at an angle of 10° to
the horizontal as a measure of the ability of a vehicle support stand to
resist tipping as a result of its geometric design (see Figure B.1).
Furthermore, a rotational force is introduced to measure the ability of

the support stand to resist the torque induced by subsequently jacking
another corner of the vehicle.

B.2

Apparatus
B.2.1 Hydraulic test rig, or other suitable device capable of applying
the appropriate force, having a means of indicating the force being
applied; fitted with a rotatable mandrel, having a means of indicating
the force required to cause rotation and a means of inclining the base
at an angle of 10° to the horizontal.
B.2.2 “Tee” section tool (having dimensions conforming to those
shown in Figure B.1) to be fitted to the rotatable mandrel so as to
impose the test force onto the head of the support stand.
B.2.3 A stopwatch or means capable of keeping time for 60 s.

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BS AU 223a:2006
B.3

Procedure
B.3.1 Position the vehicle support stand on the inclined base so that it
is in the least stable configuration (see note) whilst having the blade of
the “Tee” section tool perpendicular to trough of the engagement head.

NOTE The least stable condition is normally when the stand has been
adjusted to its highest setting.

B.3.2 Align the axis of the “Tee” section tool vertically so that it passes
through the geometric centre of the engagement head
(see Figure B.1).
B.3.3 Gradually apply a force via the “Tee” section tool to the
engagement head.
B.3.4 Continue to increase the force (Lv) until it is equivalent to 110%
of the rated capacity of the vehicle support stand or until some part of
the stand breaks, fractures or becomes permanently deformed or
becomes unstable.
B.3.5 Maintain this force for a minimum of 60 s.
B.3.6 Remove the force and examine the vehicle support stand to
observe whether or not any part of the stand has broken, fractured or
become permanently deformed. If the support stand is in good
condition, the same sample is to be used for the rotational resistance
test (B.3.7).
B.3.7 Utilizing the same sample (if it has passed examination) as
in B.3.6, re-apply the vertical force (Lv) and then apply a rotational
force (Lr) at a leverage of 1m, for a minimum period of 60 s.
NOTE For example a support stand rated at 1 500 kg
(or 3 000 kg per pair):
Lv = 110% of 1 500 Kg

= 1 650 kg

Lr = 10% of Lv (@ 1.0m) = 165 kg/m

B.3.8 Remove the force and examine the vehicle support stand to

observe whether or not any part of the stand has broken, fractured or
become permanently deformed.

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BS AU 223a:2006
Loading for stability test

50 minimum

X

6 maximum

Figure B.1

50 minimum

X
A

A

10º

10º

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BS AU 223a:2006
Annex C (normative)

C.1

Test method for structural integrity
of the engagement head
Principle
A vehicle support stand is subjected to a specified eccentric force which
is applied to the end of the engagement head.

C.2

Apparatus
C.2.1 Hydraulic test rig, or other suitable device capable of applying
the appropriate force, having a means of indicating the force being
applied
C.2.2 A square ended rigid 50 mm diameter rod, through which the
force can be transmitted to the engagement head.
C.2.3 Large, hard, flat surface, on which the vehicle support stand is
stood when tested.
C.2.4 A stopwatch or means capable of keeping time for 60 s.

C.3

Procedure
C.3.1 Position the vehicle support stand on a large, hard, flat surface.
C.3.2 Align the 50 mm diameter rod vertically so that its axis passes
through the point Q on the periphery of the engagement head
(see Figure C.1).
C.3.3 Gradually apply a force via the rod to the engagement head.
C.3.4 Continue to increase the force until it is equivalent to 110% of
the rated capacity of the vehicle support stand and maintain this force
for a minimum of 60 s.
C.3.5 Remove the force and examine the engagement head of the
vehicle support stand to observe whether or not any part of the
engagement head has broken or fractured.

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BS AU 223a:2006
Figure C.1

Annex D (normative)
D.1

Location of test rod over point Q on a typical engagement head

Overload test method
Principle
A force is applied to the centre of the engagement head of a vehicle
support stand and the amount of permanent deflection of the vehicle
support stand is measured.

D.2

Apparatus
D.2.1 Hydraulic test rig, or other suitable device capable of applying
the appropriate force, having a means of indicating the force being
applied
D.2.2 A 50 mm diameter square ended rigid rod, through which the
force can be transmitted to the engagement head.
D.2.3 Large, hard, flat surface, on which the vehicle support stand is
stood when tested.
D.2.4 Means of measuring the overall height of the stand, before and
after test.
D.2.5 A stopwatch or means capable of keeping time for 60 s.

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BS AU 223a:2006
D.3

Procedure
D.3.1 For an adjustable height stand, extend the stand to its maximum
possible height.
NOTE For a pinned column vehicle support stand, if it is possible to use
the stand with the upper column resting on top of the pin, rather than
having the pin pass through the upper column, then this might represent
the maximum possible height for the purpose of this test. This is
notwithstanding the fact that the stand was not intended to be used in this

manner by the manufacturer.

D.3.2 Align the 50 mm rod vertically so that its axis passes through the
centre of the engagement head.
D.3.3 Measure the height of the stand from the centre of the
engagement head to the base plane.
Figure D.1

Location of test rod over axis on a typical engagement
head

D.3.4 Gradually apply a force to the centre of the engagement head.
D.3.5 Continue to increase the force gradually until the vehicle support
stand is loaded to twice the rated capacity. Maintain the load equivalent
to twice the rated capacity for at least 60 s.
D.3.6 Release the load.
D.3.7 Measure the height from the centre of the engagement head to
the base plane with the load released.
D.3.8 Examine the vehicle support stand for breaks and fractures.

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BS AU 223a:2006
Annex E (normative)

E.1

Test method for permanence of
marking

Principle
A sample including the marked area of the stand is immersed in petrol
and detergent solution and subjected to rubbing.

E.2

Apparatus and reagents
E.2.1 Test sample, a sample stand taken from a batch as specified by
the manufacturer’s quality control procedures or customer
requirements. For ease of handling, a section of the stand containing
the marked area can be cut or removed from the sampled stand.
E.2.2 Immersion tanks, to permit complete immersion of the test
sample in both petrol and detergent solution at a temperature
of 20 °C ± 2 °C.
E.2.3 Enough unleaded petrol conforming to BS EN 228 to immerse
the test sample.
E.2.4 A stopwatch or means capable of keeping time for 10 mins.
E.2.5 Mutton cloth.
E.2.6 A current of dry air, capable of drying the test sample.
E.2.7 Detergent 0.5% of the volume of the water within the tank.

E.3

Procedure
E.3.1 Immerse the test sample in commercial unleaded petrol to
BS EN 228 for 10 min at 20 °C ± 2 °C. Remove from the petrol and rub
the markings over an area of approximately 10 mm × 50 mm with firm
hand pressure for 30 s using mutton cloth dampened in the petrol.
E.3.2 Dry the sample thoroughly in a current of dry air then immerse
in clean water into which 0.5% by volume of detergent has been

thoroughly mixed.
Keep the sample immersed at 20 °C ± 2 °C for 24 h.
Remove from the water and rub the markings over an area of
approximately 10 mm × 50 mm with firm hand pressure for 30 s using
mutton cloth dampened in the water/detergent mixture.
E.3.3 Examine the test area for legibility and permanence of the
marking message.
NOTE Suitable fume extraction and other safety precautions should be
employed during this procedure.

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BS AU 223a:2006

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