**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**



# H **E L**  **I C**  **O P**  **T E**  **R**

**S H**  **O R**  **T**

**- H**  **A U**  **L**

**( 3**  **5 1**  **D M**  **1 )** 

D e p a r t m e n t o f t h e I n t e r i o r

H A N D B O O K

**Revised Jan. 2009 Department of the Interior** 

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 1 Field Code Changed 

### F **O R**  **E W**  **O R**  **D**

As authorized in 351 DM 1.7, the Helicopter Short

- haul Handbook was first developed in 1994. Objectives,

policies, and standards for all Department of Interio r (DOI) short

- haul programs are defined in this

document.

In January 1999, the “Interagency Helicopter Short

- haul Working Group” was established under the direction

of the “Interagency Helicopter Operations Committee” (IHOPs). It is recognized that this document may be

adopted for use by state or local agencies; however, its conten t remains the responsibility of DOI, acting upon

recommendations from the Short

- haul Working Group. Proposed changes or deletions to this document

should be addressed through the agency to the working group.

The objectives, policies, and procedures presc ribed herein are generally broad in scope and define minimum

program standards. It is the responsibility of each using agency to determine, within the parameters of this

document, additional requirements necessary for safe and efficient operations. These requirements must

identify and define specific and often unique program needs and shall be outlined in agency and/or user

specific short

- haul operations plans

.

**/s/ Mark L.**  **Bathrick**

**Associate Director, DOI AM**  **NBC, AMD Department of the Interior** 

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 2 Field Code Changed 

### T **A B**  **L E**  **O F**  **C O**  **N T**  **E N**  **T S** 

**F O**  **R E**  **W O**  **R D** 

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................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 8

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**C H**  **A P**  **T E**  **R 4**  **: S**  **H O**  **R T** 

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### 15

**C H**  **A P**  **T E**  **R 6**  **: E**  **M E**  **R G**  **E N**  **C Y**  **P R**  **O C**  **E D**  **U R**  **E S** 

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### 16

**6**

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................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 16

**6**

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**, E**  **N G**  **I N**  **E F**  **A I**  **L U**  **R E** 

................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 16

**6.3 S**  **HORT**

**- H**  **AUL L**  **INE E**  **NTANGLEMENT**

................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................. 

### 16

**A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I C**  **E S** 

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**- U**  **P C**  **H E**  **C K**  **L I**  **S T** 

................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 18

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................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 31

**A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **D T**  **R A**  **I N**  **I N**  **G O**  **U T**  **L I**  **N E** 

................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 35

**A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **E H**  **A N**  **D S**  **I G**  **N A**  **L S** 

................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................... 40

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................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 42

**A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **G F**  **S H**  **O R**  **T**

**- H**  **A U**  **L R**  **I S**  **K A**  **N A**  **L Y**  **S I**  **S**

................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 48

**A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **G T**  **r i**  **a n**  **i n**  **g L**  **o g** 

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................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 53

**A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **J E**  **Q U**  **I P**  **M E**  **N T** 

**, S**  **U P**  **P L**  **I E**  **S**

**, R**  **E F**  **E R**  **E N**  **C E**  **S**

................................ ................................ ......................... **A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **I E**  **Q U**  **I P**  **M E**  **N T** 

**, S**  **U P**  **P L**  **I E**  **S**

**, R**  **E F**  **E R**  **E N**  **C E**  **S**

................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 

### 54

**H E**  **L I**  **C O**  **P T**  **E R**  **S H**  **O R**  **T**

**- H**  **A U**  **L G**  **L O**  **S S**  **A R**  **Y**

**................................ ................................**  **................................ .....................**  

### 59 Formatted: Normal, Indent: First line: 0.14" Formatted: Font: 11 pt, Check spelling and

grammar**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 3 Field Code Changed 

### C **H A**  **P T**  **E R**  **1 :**  **G E**  **N E**  **R A**  **L I**  **N F**  **O R**  **M A**  **T I**  **O N** 

**1**

**. 1**  **D E**  **F I**  **N I**  **T I**  **O N** 

Short

- haul: To transport one or more persons suspended beneath a helicopter ( HEC

**-** human external c argo)

.

**1**

**. 2**  **H I**  **S T**  **O R**  **Y**

The developm ent of the short

- haul technique in this country has been closely associated with the evolution of

helicopter rappelling (heli

- rappelling). When ground evacuation was dangerous or impractical, personnel were

removed fro m rappel sites by attaching to rappel lines that were anchored to the helicopter. While heli

- rappel

requires extended hover time for the delivery of persons to a specific location, short

- hau l emphasizes limited

hover time with added capability of the extr action of persons and cargo.

H elicopter short

- haul technique was originally researched and developed by Swiss Air Rescue (REGA) in 1966.

Short

- haul gained popularity in Europe prior to 1970 as an effective rescue technique in mountainous areas. In

1970, National Parks Canada incorporated short

- haul into their search and rescue program, where it continues

to be widely used.

In the early 1980 s, short

- haul was adopted and modified by a variety of agencies for use in rescue a nd law

enforcement programs in t he United States. Helicopter short

- haul continues to be an effective tool in meeting

safe and efficient operational objectives within these programs.

**1**

**. 3**  **P U**  **R P**  **O S**  **E**

This Handbook outlines minimum policies, procedures, qualifications, training requirements and equipment for

helicopter short

- haul programs within the DOI.

**1**

**. 4**  **A P**  **P R**  **O V**  **A L** 

Helicopter short

- haul programs must be approved by the agency. New program requests shall be forwarded to,

and approved by, agency Directors or their delegates and then forwa rded to the Associate Director, NBC, DOI

NBC AM AMD . Requests shall include a copy of agency approval and the proposed local s hort

- h aul o perations

p lan

, describing when and how short

- haul will be used. The operations plan must include a GO/NO

- GO process

fo r risk management purposes

. Plans must comply with agency and d epartmental policies and guidelines.

**1**

**. 5**  **N E**  **W P**  **R O**  **G R**  **A M**  **S**

Refer to A ppendix A for a new program start

- up checklist. Local aviation program managers shall select spotter

trainees. Initial shor t

- haul training wi ll be conducted by agency and DOI NBC AM AMD approved Training

Specialists in accordance with this handbook. Qualified check spotters from other approved programs shall be

used for training and qualification.**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 4 Field Code Changed 

### C **H A**  **P T**  **E R**  **2 :**  **Q U**  **A L**  **I F**  **I C**  **A T**  **I O**  **N S**  **& R**  **E Q**  **U I**  **R E**  **M E**  **N T**  **S**

**2**

**. 1**  **P I**  **L O**  **T R**  **E Q**  **U I**  **R E**  **M E**  **N T**  **S**

A safe and effective short

- haul program is highly dependent upon precision long

- line skills. Accordingly, pilots

must comply with the following mini mum requirements

.

• Q ualified in accordance with 14 CFR 133 for Class A and B external load operations and meet

requirements identified in the procurement document.

• 50 hours Pilot

- In

- Command (PIC) in make and model in the preceding 12 months.

• 25 hours of vertical reference experience requiring precision placement in the preceding 12 mont hs

.

• Approved for long

- line operations.

• Have s uccessfully complete d the DOI NBC DOI AM administered Short

- Haul Pilot Practical Test outlined

in Appendix C

.

• Complete a nnual o perational t raining with the using agency

.

• Understand s hort

- haul techniq ues, short

- haul/spotter signals and operational concerns.

• Demonstrate ability to work with the short

- haul spotter.

**2**

**. 2**  **S P**  **O T**  **T E**  **R A**  **N D**  **S H**  **O R**  **T**

**- H**  **A U**  **L E**  **R R**  **E Q**  **U I**  **R E**  **M E**  **N T**  **S**

Spotters and short

- haulers shall complete the following minimum requirements

. Individuals may require

additional training based upon the complexity of the program

.

**A. Check Spotter** 

An agency state or regional aviation manager will recommend check spotter candidates. Final approval

will be accomplished by DOI DOI NBC AM. In additi on to meeting all spotter requirements, c heck

spotter candidates must :

1) Be qualified as a resource helicopter m anager.

2) Have served as a qualified spotter for two years.

3) Have d emonstrate d ability as an instructor and assisted in the training of at least t wo spotters.

**B. Spotter** 

Spotter candidates must:

1) Have c omplet e d Interagency Helicopter Crewmember Training (S

- 271).

2) Be f amiliar with the helicopter procurement document s.**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 5 Field Code Changed 3) Under the supervision of a qualified check spotter:

a) Demonstrate kn owledge of the inspection, care and maintenance of short

- haul

equipment.

b) Demonstrate ability to rig the helicopter for short

- haul, provide a safety b riefing and

conduct a safety check of short

- haul personnel without procedural error.

c) Demonstrate knowledge of eme rgency procedures.

d) Spot six loads of short

- haul personnel, two in typical terrain. If applicable, four loads of

cargo (e.g.

, a rescue litter) shall be deployed without procedural error.

e) Demonstrate ability to work with the pilot.

f) Demonstrate knowledge o f risk assessment and mission structure.

**NOTE :**  The spotter must perform all spotter duties.

**C. Initial Short** 

**- hauler** 

Short

- hauler candidates must:

1) Have co mpleted Interagency Helicopter Crewmember Training (S

- 271)

.

2) Demonstrate knowledge of the inspecti on, care and maintenance of short

- haul equipment and

rigging.

3) Demonstrate knowledge of short

- haul procedures.

4) Demonstrate knowledge of emergency procedures.

5) Complete a minimum of two short

- hauls without procedural error. Training should be in

typical t errain and should include receiving cargo.

6) Demonstrate knowledge of risk assessment and mission components.

**NOTE:** The spotter should incorporate short

- haul scenarios with deployments in typical terrain and/or confined

areas into training

.

**2**

**. 3**  **A N**  **N U**  **A L**  **R E** 

**- Q**  **U A**  **L I**  **F I**  **C A**  **T I**  **O N**  **R E**  **Q U**  **I R**  **E M**  **E N**  **T S** 

The pilot and all short

- haul personnel shall participate in annual operational training and complete the following

requirements to the satisfaction of the check spotter or spotter

.

**A. Annual short** 

**- haul trai**  **ning will inc**  **lude :** 

1) Participation in helicopter safety refresher training.**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 6 Field Code Changed 2) Revi ew and discussion of the local short

- haul operations p lan, emergency procedures and risk

assessment.

3) Review short

- haul related incident s and lessons learned

.

4) Review of the procurement d ocument.

**B. Pilot** 

In addition to the annual short

- haul training, the pilot will s uccessfully complete the DOI NBC DOI AM

administered Short

- Haul Pilot Practical Test outlined in Appendix C.

**C. Check Spotter and**  **Spotter**

In addition to the annual short

- haul training, check spotters and spotters will:

1) Demonstrate knowledge of short

- haul procedures and spotter responsibilities to another

spotter without error.

2) Complete four short

- hauls without procedural error. If applicable, four cargo loads may be

su bstituted for Human External Cargo ( HEC )

.

**D. Short** 

**- Hauler** 

In addition to the annual short

- haul training, short

- haulers will:

1) Demonstrate knowledge of short

- haul procedures without error.

2) Complete at least two helicopter short

- hauls without error. At le ast one shall be in typical

terrain.

**E. Documentation** 

It is the responsibility of the spotter or program manager to maintain documentation for initial training,

re

- qualification, proficiency and operational short

- hauls. Documenta tion shall include:

1) Heli copter Load Calculation

2) Names of personnel involved

3) Terrain description

4) Type of mission, training or operational

5) Weather and flight conditions

6) Use of risk assessment

7) SAFECOM, if applicable**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 7 Field Code Changed **2**

**. 4**  **P R**  **O F**  **I C**  **I E**  **N C**  **Y R**  **E Q**  **U I**  **R E**  **M E**  **N T**  **S**

It will be the respo nsib ility of the check spotter or short

- haul program manager to determine, beyond the

minimum requirement, the frequency of proficiency short

- hauls for all short

- haul personnel, including t he pilot.

In no case will the proficiency period exceed 90 days

. The check spotter may requ ire additional training based

on the complexity of the program, or for individuals needing more instruction. An operational short

- haul within

the proficiency period may count as a proficiency short

- haul. Once past the proficiency pe riod, only training

short

- haul s may be used to re

- qualify

.

**NOTE:** More frequent short

- haul proficiency intervals may be identified in t he local short

- haul operations plan

and procurement document.

Minimum Requirements:

Initial Annual Prof iciency

Pilot P ass the pilot practical test

Operational training

Demonstrate ability

to short

- haul Pass the pilot practical test

Operational training

Demo nstrate ability to short

- haul * Short

- haul once

every 90 days or less

Check

Spotter/

Spott er Operational training

Spot six loads

, two in typical

terrai n Operational training

Spot four loads without procedural

error Spot once every 90

days or less

Short

- hauler Operational training

Complete two short

- hauls Operational training

Complete tw o short

- hauls without

procedural error Determined by

Spotter or Short

- haul

Program M anager

***** The s potter may request the pilot demonstrate the ability for precision placement on a more frequent basis.

**NOTE:** Without sacrificing efficiency or safety , short

- haul pil ots are encouraged to practice precision placement

of external loads as often as possible. During routine project work it may be useful to define spot

- specific targets

and utilize a long line o f the same length as the rope normally used fo r short

- haul. This practice encourages the

mai ntenance of short

- haul s kills

.**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 8 Field Code Changed 

### C **H A**  **P T**  **E R**  **3 :**  **P E**  **R S**  **O N**  **A L**  **P R**  **O T**  **E C**  **T I**  **V E**  **E Q**  **U I**  **P M**  **E N**  **T (**  **P P**  **E )** 

**3**

**. 1**  **E X**  **C E**  **P T**  **I O**  **N S** 

Reference 351 DM 1

, **Aviation Life Support Equipmen t Handbook**  **(ALSE)**

, for authorization for exceptions

and w aivers to PPE.

There are emergency situations that may require exceptions to PPE requirements. Exceptions will be addressed

on an incident

- by

- incident basis. The Incident Commander (IC) and incident personnel must weigh the merits

and use of PPE and the protection it provides in the event of an aircraft crash and/or f ire, against the risks

present dur ing special missions

. If during the risk asses sment process deviation from standard PPE is

considered, affected incident personnel will be advised of poten tial hazards. It may be appropriate during

typical terrain training exercises to deviate from PPE requirements to enhance safety and to simulate mission

conditions and requirements.

**A. Waiver Delegation** 

Discretionary authorization for approval of exceptio ns is delegated to agencies for those circumstances

where the protection of the individual after exiting the aircraft is deemed more critical to personal

safety and security than that provided by PPE generally required for flight.

Exercise of this author ity requires senior management approval at the national level for the agency

concerned or a written re

- delegation of authority to a lower level, which specifically details the position

or person responsible for making the decision. When the exception auth orization has been placed in

effect by the agency, a copy w ill be provided to the Director, DOI NBC DOI AM. Exception authorizations

must also be included with bureau requests for procurement services when such operations are

conducted. See 351 DM 1.7E ( 4)

.

**B. Documentation** 

A copy of the discretionary authorization shall be included in the agency or user’s local short

- haul

operations p lan.

**3**

**. 2**  **P P**  **E S**  **T A**  **N D**  **A R**  **D S** 

**PPE shall be worn in accordance with the ALSE Handbook**  **during short**

**- haul training and operations.** 

DOI NBC DOI AM may evaluate new equipment for approval, pursuant to a letter of request submitted through

the agency. Alternative PPE may be used **outside** the a ircraft to enhance the safety of the short

- hauler. T he

following items are approved for short

- ha ul er use

.

A. **Helmets:** For short

- haulers on the rope , an approved aviator’s helmet is recommended. A climbing

helmet that is Union International Alpine As sociation (UIAA) or Common European (CE) approved is

also permitted.

B. **Footwear :**  Short

- haulers may utiliz e footwear that is appropriate for mission safety (e.g.

, rock climbing

shoes, cold weather mountaineering boots, etc.)

.**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 9 Field Code Changed 

### C **H A**  **P T**  **E R**  **4 :**  **S H**  **O R**  **T**

**- H**  **A U**  **L E**  **Q U**  **I P**  **M E**  **N T** 

**4**

**. 1**  **S H**  **O R**  **T**

**- H**  **A U**  **L R**  **O P**  **E A**  **T T**  **A C**  **H M**  **E N**  **T P**  **O I**  **N T**  **/ A**  **N C**  **H O**  **R**

A short

- haul anchor system is defined as the p oint s of attachment of the short

- haul rope system to the

helicopter. This system will include both a primary and a secondary backup anchor. The primary and backup

anchor, where applicable, mu st be designed for spotter and/o r pilot release in an emergency. The load must

be fully jettisonable, utilizing two separate and independent actions. As with high

- angle rescue systems, a 10:1

Static System Safety Fac tor is required for the entire short

- h aul system from anchor to harness. The Static

System Safety Fac tor is the ratio of the maximum expected static force to the breaking strength of the weakest

link in the system. A standard of 450 pounds will be used for the maximum expected static force. The aircraft

cargo hook is exclude d from this requirement. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or DOI NBC DOI AM

shall approve attachment devices or brackets

, their installation and any proposed changes.

**NOTE** : The short

- haul anchor is a redundant system designed to prevent a catastrophic loss of the entire

sho rt

- haul load and, possibly, the HEC. This redundancy, a key safety feature, should be continued

through out the entire short

- haul system to the extent practical. Reliance on a single component at any point

in the system should be avoided.

**Maintenance**

A FAA Maintenance Technician An FAA certified Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic or approved vendor

A&P mechanic will perform maintenance tasks associated with hard point short

- haul anchors. The

manufacturer or a holder of a FAA Master Parachute Rigge rs’ Certificate will perf orm maintenance on software

anchors

.

• Metallic components of the s hort

- haul anchor must be inspected annually , a s a minimum

.

• Belly bands and 3 ring release system s must be inspected ann ually and retired after 5 years from date

of manufacture. Software components that become fuel or oil soaked shall be retired from service.

• Modification or repair of the anchor system shall be approved by DOI NBC DOI AM or certified by the

FAA in accordance with applicable Federal Aviation Regulatio ns (FARs)

.

• Anchors manufactured by DOI NBC AM or the USDA Forest Service will be given an identification number

that will be permanently affixed.

• The short

- haul program manager or spotter will maintain reco rds of inspection, maintenance and use

for the anc hor system . Records will be retained for the life of a particular product or as long as it is in

use and shall contain the following information:

1) Identification number issued by manufacturer

. 2) Identity of the user agency

. 3) Date of last insp ectio n, how it was accomplished and signature of individual who

performed it

. 4) M aintenance performed, including the date and location where it occurred, and the

signature and certificate type of the person who did the work.

**4**

**. 2**  **S H**  **O R**  **T**

**- H**  **A U**  **L R**  **O P**  **E**

Short

- haul rope is used to suspend HEC and cargo beneath the helicopter during short

- haul operations. This

rope is used for attachment from the helicopter anchor to personnel on the end of the line in lengths that are

safe and efficient for the specific needs of the individual short

- haul program.**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 10 Field Code Changed The short

- haul rope will be constructed of synthetic material which may include nylon, polyester or high

molecular weight polyethylene (e.g., SpectraTM or Dyneema TM). Cordage will be single strand or greater and of

low

- stretch

, kern mantle , or braid

- on

- braid construction

.

Any unloaded short

- haul rope will have a weigh t bag of at least 20 pounds attached to it in order to prevent

excessive trailing behind the aircraft during forward flight. Additional weight shoul d be considered for rope

lengths in excess of 100 feet. Forward flight should not exceed 60 mph with the short

- haul rope deployed.

**Short**

**- haul rope requir**  **ements:**

• Ropes will be marked in a non

- destructive manner for identification.

• Short

- haul rope his tory will be documented by the spotter or short

- haul program manager following

each use. Documentation shall include the date and specific type of use.

• Rope history will begin when the line is purchased and placed into service, noting the date of

manufacture. Useful s ervice life should be based on date of manufacture.

• Reti rement of a short

- haul rope may be dictated by ag e, documented usage history, or visual inspectio n.

When in doubt, retire it. For further guidance with regard to rope wear, inspection, ca re, and

maintenance, refer to manufacturers specifications and guidelines.

• Short

- haul rope will be reti red from service after 5 years from date of manufacture, regardless of

condition.

**4**

**. 3**  **H A**  **R N**  **E S**  **S E**  **S A**  **N D**  **P A**  **T I**  **E N**  **T E**  **X T**  **R A**  **C T**  **I O**  **N E**  **Q U**  **I P**  **M E**  **N T** 

All programs will u tilize commercially made harnesses which shall adhere to one or more of the following

standards: NFPA 1983, NFPA certified class III, ANSI Z359.1

- 1992 or CE standards. Additionally, harnesses

conforming to the CE standard shall conform to EN 12277, the E uropean Standard for “Mountaineer ing

E quipment

— Harnesses

— Safety R equirements and T est M ethods.”

M anufacturer’s recommendations for proper use will be followed. Short

- haul team members will i nspect

harnesses, daisy chains and extraction equipment frequen tly (e.g., stitching, buckles, webbing abrasion, etc.)

for wear or other damage. Harness types that provide a single metal component for attachment, such as a D

ring, should be backed up (e.g.

, girth hitch a runner or daisy chain around the waist be lt th a t is independent

of the D

- ring )

.

For upper body stabilization, short

- haulers may use a full bod y harness, chest harness and seat harness

combination, or pack strap accessory to prevent the unlikely event of inversion.

**4**

**. 4**  **C A**  **R A**  **B I**  **N E**  **R S** 

All carabiners use d for s hort

- haul will be of a locking screw

- gate, twist or auto

- lock design. Both steel and

aluminum are approved.

Carabiners should be inspected frequently for proper function of gate and locking mechanism s , abr asion, burrs,

rough edges, etc. As with other short

- haul components and hardware, s ingle points of attachment, such as a

single carabiner, should be avoided and backed up where possible.

**NOTE:** Carabiners are designed to be loaded longitu dinally. If load occurs on the side, i.e. cross gate loa ding

, failure may occur. If screw

- gate carabiners are used, be aware of the potential for vibration induced movement

of the locking mechanism.**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 11 Field Code Changed **4**

**. 5**  **K N**  **I F**  **E**

A knife su itable for rapid cutting shall be worn where it is accessible and easily removed for e mergency use. A

lanyard may be used to secure the knife to the user or to a predetermined accessible location.

**4**

**. 6**  **S P**  **O T**  **T E**  **R A**  **T T**  **A C**  **H M**  **E N**  **T**

Refer to the Aviation Life Support Equipment (ALSE) Handbook , Chapter 2.4

, Aircrew Member Secondary

Restraint System . The point and system of attachment of the spotter to the aircraft, except the seatbelt, shall be

approved by DOI NBCI AM during program review.



### C **H A**  **P T**  **E R**  **5 :**  **O P**  **E R**  **A T**  **I O**  **N S** 

**5**

**. 1**  **O P**  **E R**  **A T**  **I O**  **N A**  **L R**  **E Q**  **U I**  **R E**  **M E**  **N T**  **S**

Operations and procedures shall comply with the Depa rtmental Manual, agency aviation policy, the proc urement

document, this Handbook and the user

- specific Short

- haul Operations Plan. All flight operations have a certain

inherent degree of risk associated with them. Training and the judicious use of availa ble resources, including

helicopters, can help reduce the degree of risk associated with a particular mission. Risk assessment and the fact

that it must be an on

- going process during an operation is vitally important to a short

- haul program. Risk

assessm ent is the subjective analysis of physical hazards and operational proce dures used to arrive at a GO/NO

GO decision. Risk ass essments support informed GO/NO GO decisions, which are the responsibility of line

management. The pilot retains final autho rity for a GO/NO GO decision when safe operat ion of the aircraft is a

factor (35 2 DM 1, Aviation Safety; 1.9, A )

.

A. A spotter will be in the aircraft during short

- haul operations and will be defined in the approved

Short

- Haul Operations Plan.

B. A spotter on the bottom of the rope during short

- haul operations shall also be defined in the

operating plan. It is imperative that the pilot have clear communications with the spotter on the

end of the rope.

**5**

**. 2**  **H E**  **L I**  **C O**  **P T**  **E R**  **L O**  **A D**  **C A**  **L C**  **U L**  **A T**  **I O**  **N S** 

A helicopter load calcul ation will be completed by the pi lot and reviewed by the spotter and/or helicopter

manager for every mission. Interagency Helicopter Load Calculation shall be completed per the instructions for

Form AMD

- 67/FS 5700

- 17

.

**5**

**. 3**  **F L**  **I G**  **H T**  **R E**  **S T**  **R I**  **C T**  **I O**  **N S** 

A. Flight o perations and procedures, including short

- haul, shall be conducted from 1/2 hour before official

sunrise until 1/2 hour after official sunset, or during extended twilight hours when terrain features can

be readily distinguishable for a distance of at least one

- mile (Alaska). Additionally, hand signals from

the short

- haulers, ground crew and the aircrew must be clearly visible.**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 12 Field Code Changed B. Visibility for short

- haul missions shall be a minimum of 1/2 mile.

**NOTE:** Life threatening emergencies as determined by local management may prompt deviation from the

Departmental Manual and/or the Short

- haul Handbook. In such an event, thorough documentation and

submittal of a SAFECOM is required. The risk

- to

- benefit gain of deviation should be carefully assessed through

risk management procedures.

**5**

**. 4**  **M I**  **S S**  **I O**  **N B**  **R I**  **E F**  **I N**  **G**

A briefing shall be provided by appropriate incident managers and/or the spotter prior to short

- haul operations

and must include the pilot, manager and, to the greatest degree possible, all persons involved in the operation.

As a minimum, the following shall be addressed during the mission briefing:

 Risk Assessment

 Nature of the Mission

 Location

 Terrain

 Weather

 Landing Areas

 Individual Responsibilities

 Cargo Let

- Down procedures, if applicable

 Hazards

 Safety Considerations

 Emergency Procedures

 Situational Awareness Review

**NOTE:** Risk assessment is an on

- going process, to be applied throughout the operation.

**5**

**. 5**  **P E**  **R S**  **O N**  **N E**  **L A**  **N D**  **H E**  **L I**  **C O**  **P T**  **E R**  **E Q**  **U I**  **P M**  **E N**  **T C**  **H E**  **C K**  **S**

**A. Personnel**  **Safety Ch eck** 

Each individual will check themselves and their partner before operations commence. Inspection will

work from head to toe and will adapt to specific equipment used.

 Helmet properly fitted, chin strap fastened.

 Eye protection secured.

 Fire res istant clothing properly worn.

 Collar up and flight suit completely zipped. Loose items around neck tucked into clothing.

 Radio operational and on correct frequency

.

 Gloves on.

 Sleeves down and secured over gloves.

 Harness proper ly fitted, buckles corre ctly fastened, no twists, loose straps secured

. D ouble

- check on follow

- through buckles . Two separate points of attachment are properly

secured to harness and locking carabiners are functional.

 Knife easily accessible and secured.

 ALSE approved footw ear if riding in the aircraft.

 Pants or flight suit should be long enough to cover top of boots while in seated position if

riding in aircraft

.**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 13 Field Code Changed **B. Helicopter Equipment Check** 

The pilot, spotter and short

- haulers will complete the following checkli st (may vary by aircraft ):

 Cargo

- r emove items not essential to the mission.

 Cabin c onfiguration

- a s directed by the pilot, monitor adjustments as the cabin is

configured for short

- haul.

 Anchor and release system installed correctly, tested and secure.

 S hort

- haul r ope corr ectly attached to primary and back

- up anchors

.

 Line and brake device available for cargo let

- down.

 Cargo secured

, but accessible.

 Spotter attachment secure

.

 Seat b elts secured and operational.

 Maps and mission information secured

, but accessible.

 All radios operation al and on correct frequencies. A radio check should be done to

establish communications between the aircraft and appropriate short

- haul personnel,

includin g pilot, spotter, short

- haulers and ground crew members.

 Intercom sys tem o perational. Due to other air traffic or ground personnel attempting to

mak e radio contact, use of the hot microphone is not recommended.

**5**

**. 6**  **P I**  **L O**  **T /**  **S P**  **O T**  **T E**  **R D**  **U T**  **I E**  **S D**  **U R**  **I N**  **G M**  **I S**  **S I**  **O N**  **R E**  **C O**  **N N**  **A I**  **S S**  **A N**  **C E**  **F L**  **I G**  **H T** 

Coordination between the pilot and spotter is essential for the safe and efficient completion of short

- haul

missions. The spotter will assist the pilot with navigation and flight following as well as be alert to hazards,

such as other aircraft, wires and blade clearance. The pilot and spotter must e valuate and select short

- haul

insertion and extraction sites, as well as possible staging areas. Short

- haulers may also assist with site

selection. Short

- haul insertion and extraction sites should be evaluated for the following:

 Proximity to incident, if insertion/extraction site is n ot at the incident site

 Approximate size

 Slope

 Rotor clearance

 Wind conditions

 Ground/aerial hazards

 Approach and departure routes

 Non

- incident personnel in the area

Once a site has been selected, a hover check to determin e available power shall be done. Other information

necessary to complete the GO/ NO GO decision will be gathered. A landing area suitable for rigging the

aircraft will be selected.

**5**

**. 7**  **S P**  **O T**  **T E**  **R D**  **U T**  **I E**  **S A**  **T S**  **T A**  **G I**  **N G**  **A R**  **E A** 

A f

t e r l a n d i n g

, t h e s p o t t e r i s r e s p o n s i b l e f o r p r e p a r i n g t h e h e l i c o p t e r f o r s h o r t

- h a u l f o l l o w i n g t h e h e l i c o p t e r

c h e c k l i s t f r o m 5

. 5 a b o v e

. Any additional crew briefing should be done at this time. This may include new

hazards spotted , situational changes, additional pilot requests /cautions , possible cargo deployments, etc. The**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 14 Field Code Changed spotter should have a buddy check for their harness and also check the spotter attachment. Additionally, all

other traffic should be cleared from the frequency to be used for the short

- haul.

**5**

**. 8**  **S H**  **O R**  **T**

**- H**  **A U**  **L E**  **R D**  **U T**  **I E**  **S D**  **U R**  **I N**  **G I**  **N S**  **E R**  **T I**  **O N** 

D uring the lift

- off and preparation for the insertion it is important that short

- haulers communicate to the pilot

and spott er what is occurring on the rope

.

**1.** Short

- haulers remain a safe distance from the helicopter.

**2.** Helicopter lif ts and establishes hover.

**3.** Short

- haulers attach to short

- haul rope after receiving the command from the pilot and/or spotter

.

**NOTE** : If short

- haulers are inserted in pairs , one person should be responsible for communications and the

other for tending to th e short

- haul rope.

**4.** Short

- haulers give spotter "ready" signal.

5. Pilot lifts short

- haulers and flies to incident site. Spotter monitors short

- haulers during transport.

Prior to insertion , the pilot will do a final power assurance check.

6. Upon arrival a t the incident site the short

- hauler may a ssist with vertical reference by calling out

distances over the radio , e.g., “ two

- zero feet above the ground , one

- zero feet, on the ground

, ” as the pilot

delivers the load in a controlled fashion.

7. Once on the gro und

, sufficient time should be allowed for the short

- haulers to stabilize and secure

themselves prior to disconnecting from the short

- haul line. Short

- haulers communicate to pilot and/or

spotter when they are ready to unhook

.

**8.** When directed by the pilot a nd/or spotter, short

- haulers unhook from short

- haul rope and signal when

they are clear.

**9.** The helicopter departs the short

- haul site and returns when requested.

**5**

**. 9**  **S H**  **O R**  **T**

**- H**  **A U**  **L E**  **R D**  **U T**  **I E**  **S D**  **U R**  **I N**  **G E**  **X T**  **R A**  **C T**  **I O**  **N**

**1.** It is critical to maintain communications bet we en personnel on the ground, the pilot , the spotter an d the

short

- haulers during extraction.

**2.** At the short

- haul extraction site, prior to extraction:

 Communicate any pertinent new information to the helicopter crew.

 Communicate any s ituational changes.

 Mov e unnecessary peop le away.

**3.** Short

- haulers and/or victim are attached to short

- haul lines on command.

**4.** Short

- haulers give "ready" signal.**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 15 Field Code Changed **5.** Pilot lifts short

- haulers

, clears obstacles

, and flies to land ing area. Spotter observes short

- haulers

during tra nsport.

**6.** Short

- hauler may assist pilot with vertical reference to the ground, e.g.

, “two

- zero feet, one

- zero feet, on

the ground.”

**7.** Once short

- haulers are stable and secure, and after they receive direction from the pilot or spotter to

unhook, they do so a nd signal when they are clear.

**8.** The helicopter lands and personnel and/or victim are loaded inside the helicopter for extended flight.

**NOTE:** Follo wing any training exercise or actual mission, a “hot debrief ” should be conducted. Research has

shown that t his is a key ingredient of many successful teams. The hot debrief conducted immediately following

the mission can meet the following objectives:

 Provide feedback to involved personnel.

 Identify areas of concern for follow

- up.

 Reinforce lesson learned.

**5**

**. 1**  **0 A**  **D M**  **I N**  **I S**  **T R**  **A T**  **I V**  **E D**  **U T**  **I E**  **S**

The program manager shall be responsible for the comp letion of documentation related to short

- haul activities.

The spotter shall have sufficient training, qualifications and experience to accomplish the follow ing duties and

responsibilities.

• Contractual problems are communicated to appropriate personnel

(helicopter manager, project inspector, COAR, etc.)

.

• SafeCom s completed when necessary.

• Monitor currency of short

- haul personnel and schedule training as needed.

• Insure that short

- haul logbooks for personnel and equipment are current.

**5**

**. 1**  **1 C**  **A R**  **G O**  **L E**  **T D**  **O W**  **N**

Cargo letdown shall comply with requirements and procedures outlined in the Interagency Helicopter Rappel

Guide

. or Appendi x F for aircraft not addressed in the Rappel Gu ide.

**NOTE:** Cargo let

- down was designed to augment helicopter capabilities. It is not a replacement for long

- line

operations. Exposure and risk assessment must be addressed in the process of determining which type of

helicopter delivery system to use.**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 16 Field Code Changed 

### C **H A**  **P T**  **E R**  **6 :**  **E M**  **E R**  **G E**  **N C**  **Y P**  **R O**  **C E**  **D U**  **R E**  **S**

Preplanning for emergency procedures is a critical component of risk management. Accordingly, each short

haul program must evaluate a nd discuss potential scenarios and actions that may best mitigate any assoc iated

hazards . Training for effe ctive crew resource management should be a part of this process.

It is imperative that everyone involved in short

- haul understand how instantaneous ly an in

- flight emergency

may occur. Survival of short

- haul personnel dur ing an in

- flight emergency is best accomplished by having

suspended personnel remain attached to the rope while the pilot attempts emergency landing. Examples of

formalized emergency planning procedures are outlined below.

WARNING : Short

- haul operatio ns are inherently dangerous and could be fatal. This must be

discussed in detail during training, re

- currency and mission briefings. Release of the short

- haul

line with human external cargo (HEC) attached beneath the aircraft will only be used as a last

resort, but may be necessary in certain aircraft emergencies. This decision rests solely with the

PIC, their evaluation of the aircraft emergency, and the effect the HEC is having on the aircraft.

The decision of any short

- hauler to cut away from the lin e is a personal choice depending on the

circumstances and best chance for survival. **WARNING :**  **Short**

**- haul operations are inherently** 

**dangerous and could be fatal. This must be discussed in detail during training, re** 

**- currency and mission** 

**briefings**

**. R**  **elease of the short** 

**- haul line**  **is not an operational consideration while human external cargo** 

**(HEC) is attached beneath the aircraft. The short**

**- haul line will not be**  **jettisoned. The only exception** 

**whereby the line ma y be jettisoned is entanglement**  **or the potenti al of entanglement. In case of an** 

**aircraft emergency, the pilot will attempt to**  **land with HEC attached to the**  **short**

**- haul line. The decision** 

**of any short** 

**- hauler to cut away from**  **the line is a personal choice depending on the circumstances and** 

**best chance for survival.** 

**6**

**. 1**  **H E**  **L I**  **C O**  **P T**  **E R**  **I N**  **F L**  **I G**  **H T** 

**, C**  **O N**  **T R**  **O L**  **A N**  **D P**  **O W**  **E R**  **M A**  **I N**  **T A**  **I N**  **E D** 

**Examples:** Caution indicator or chip light on, gradual loss of oil pressure, etc. The pilot may:

• Notify the spotter and short

- haul personnel and set them on the ground as soon as po ssible.

• Continue with the flight and notify the spotter and short

- haulers that a precautionary landing will

occur as soon as a suitable landing area is found.

**NOTE:** Once o n the ground, personnel should rapidly unhook or cut lines and seek protection.

**6**

**. 2**  **H E**  **L I**  **C O**  **P T**  **E R**  **L O**  **S S**  **O F**  **C O**  **N T**  **R O**  **L O**  **R P**  **O W**  **E R** 

**, E**  **N G**  **I N**  **E F**  **A I**  **L U**  **R E** 

**Examples:** Loss of tail rotor authority, transmission failure, compressor stall, engine failure, hydraulic boost

pump failure, etc. The pilot may :

• Declare the emergency to the spotter and short

- haulers.

• Attempt to get short

- haulers on the ground. Short

- haulers will rapidly unhook or cut lines and seek

protection.**Department of the Interior**

**Helicopter Short**

**- Haul** 

**Handbook (351 DM 1)**

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 17 Field Code Changed • Attempt to maneuver helicopter away from personnel on the ground.

**6.3 SHORT**

**- HAUL LINE ENTANGLEME**  **NT**

In the event of possible line e ntanglement, the pilot may decide it is necessary to release the line. Pilot will notify

the spotter and ground personnel that line may be released.

**NOTE:** Again, it is imperative that potential emergency scenarios, actions and reactions likely required of all

involved personnel are discussed as thoroughly as possible prior to flight.

Ongoing efforts within the helicopter short

- haul community to improve the survivability of personnel during

both normal flight operations a nd in the event of an emergency include:

 Improved pilot/spotter release systems.

 Training in crew resource ma nagement, situational awareness and risk management.

 Water ditching training

.

 Improved pilot proficiency evaluation s

.

 Emphasis on typical terrain training.

 Acquisition of the bes t aircraft for the job.

 Information sharing on lessons learned

.

 Evaluation and testing of new technology which could lead to operational improvements and

increased safety

.

 Use of improved PPE such as new flame resistant fabrics.

 Interface with the internat ional short

- haul community.

 Organized helicopter short

- haul workshops.

 Pursuit of additional program funding for training and equipment.

These efforts reflect a proactive approach to risk management and hazard mitigation that should exist within

each heli copter short

- haul program.

**“Takeoffs are optional, landings are mandatory!”**

### Appendix A

– New Short

- haul Program Start

- Up Checklist

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 18 Field Code Changed 

### A **P P**  **E N**  **D I**  **C E**  **S**

**A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **A :**  **N E**  **W S**  **H O**  **R T** 

**- H**  **A U**  **L P**  **R O**  **G R**  **A M**  **S T**  **A R**  **T**

**- U**  **P C**  **H E**  **C K**  **L I**  **S T** 

For new short

- haul programs initial start

- up can be a daunting and intimidating process for designated short

haul program managers. The start

- up is a process that takes time to initiate and should be given ample time

to implement. A new short

- haul program should progress in a logical sequence.

The following checklist is intended to provide direction to assis t in the process.

**1.1 Approval** 

 Short

- haul program manager designated for local short

- haul program. Usually this person initiates

short

- haul proposal and presents to bureau or agency management for initial approval.

 Helicopter short

- haul programs must be approved by the agency. New program requests shall be

forwarded to, and approved by, agency Directors or their delegates and then forwarded to the Associate

Director, DOI NBC AM AMD

.

 Requests shall include a copy of agency approval and the proposed local Short

- haul Operations Plan

(refer to Appendix B for an example of a Unit Short

- haul Operations Plan) describing when and how

short

- haul will be used. The operations plan must include a GO/NO

- GO process for risk management

purposes

. Plans must comply wit h Departmental and Agency policy and guidelines.

o A short

- haul operations plan is normally written by the local program aviation manager,

which details program requirements for the local unit. The plan should be referenced in the

local unit’s aviation man agement plan. It is recommended that new programs utilize the

template from Appendix B and get input from the Short

- Haul Working Group and DOI

- NBC

AM AMD specialists. Initial approval must be completed by all involved parties and finally

approved by agenc y Directors.

**1.2 Program Funding** 

- It is extremely important that funding is available to provide for initial start

- up and continual support of the short

- haul program. Some funding considerations are:

 Helicopter Costs

**–** Pilot and short

- haul personnel profi ciency training will require additional

helicopter cost, requiring between 8

- 10 hours of flight time per year ($5,000 to $10,000)

.

 Short

- haul Equipment Purchase

- The initial equipment purchase may cost between $5,000 and

$10,000. Annual equipment upkeep will be at least $1000 per year.

 Additional annual costs for training and workshops, approximately $2,000

- 5,000.

**1.3 Training/Workshops (requirements may vary by region)** 

 Pilot Proficiency

- Pilot will have to pass a four phase short

- haul proficiency evalu ation. This will

require practice time. The cost of the accrued helicopter flight time will have to be negotiated

between unit and contractor by DOI

- NBC DOI AM contracting officer. A short

- haul proficiency course

has been developed and should be practice d in preparation for the official test by a DOI

- NBC DOI AM

check pilot. (see Appendix C)

### Appendix A

– New Short

- haul Program Start

- Up Checklist

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 19 Field Code Changed  Short

- haul Personnel will be required to attend Helicopter Crewmember Training, S

- 271 and annual

short

- haul training. Will be required to maintain proficiency every 90 days.

o There may be additional cost if unit does not have a check spotter.

o Check spotters are required to be qualified as a resource helicopter m anager.

o Short

- haul program managers and/or spotters should attend the annual short

- haul

workshop.

o Check spot ters required to attend triennial helicopter manager workshop (RT

- 372)

.

**1.4 Time Frame** 

– Anticipate at least 8

- 12 months as a minimum before initial short

- haul training can begin.

The amount of time required to initiate a short

- haul program will vary due to a number of factors:

 What type of aircraft is intended for use?

o Will the aircraft type require new development of equipment or procedures? Helicopter

models currently not being used for short

- haul may require at least 12 months for

equipment eva luation and approval.

 What type of helicopter procurement document? A new or existing procurement documents will

require the procurement document to include additional pilot proficiency and aircraft equipment

modifications.

**1.5 Program preparation** 

. -

 Approval Process

o Local

o Regional

o National

o Send to AM Associate Director

 Program Funding

o Helicopter procurement document

– It is important to contact the closest appropriate DOI

NBC AM AMD area or r R egion al office as soon as possible to initiate the aircraft procurement

and pilot approval process.

o Short

- haul equipment purchase

– Helicopter short

- haul anchor will be associated with

helicopter make and model. Make and model may influence procurement and installation.

Develop estimate of total cost f or personnel and aircraft associated equipment.

o Annual training costs

– Short

- haul personnel, and pilot proficiency.

o Miscellaneous costs

-

 Final Details

### Appendix A

– New Short

- haul Program Start

- Up Checklist

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 20 Field Code Changed o Aircraft Inspection

– New make and model of aircraft that have not been used for short

- haul

pr eviously may require additional research and evaluation. Sufficient time will be required

prior to the pilot proficiency test.

o Pilot Proficiency

– Evaluation will be conducted by a DOI NBC DOI AM pilot inspector and the

local short

- haul program manager. Evaluation should not occur consecutive to short

- haul

training. Ample time should be provided in case the contract pilot fails and requires

additional proficiency training.

o Short

- haul Training

– Training should not be scheduled until the aircraft inspect ion and the

pilot proficiency test have been successfully completed.

**NOTE: It is imperative that the local short**

**- haul program manager and the identified**  **DOI NBC**  **AM area**

**or AMD**  **regional office maintain close contact throughout the entire start**

**- up process.**  **Sufficient pre**

  ** planning must occur at each stage to eliminate additional costs and prepare for the next stage.** **After**

**the approval process, program funding and final details, as defined above, are completed, the program**

**is now considered an operational sh ort** 

**- haul program.** Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 21 Field Code Changed **A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **B :**  **E X**  **A M**  **P L**  **E O**  **F U**  **N I**  **T S**  **H O**  **R T** 

**- H**  **A U**  **L O**  **P E**  **R A**  **T I**  **O N**  **S P**  **L A**  **N**



# Yellowstone National Park

Helicopter Short

- Haul Operations Plan

January 2008 Revision

PREPARED BY:

___ ____________________ ____________________ ____________

Approved:

Superintendent:________________________________________________

Recommended:

Chief Ranger:_________________________________________________

Recommended:

Park Aviation Officer: ____

______________________________________Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 22 Field Code Changed 

### INTRODUCTION

Helicopter Short

- haul Rescue involves the use of a rescue line (doubled kern mantle static rope) attached to a helicopter's center of gravity point to insert or extract rescue personnel and injured

p ersons in an emergent situation; typically from a remote scene where safe helicopter landings are not possible.

This technique provides technical rescue personnel an extra tool with which to expeditiously remove a seriously injured subject from a remote l ocation. Without its availability, an Incident Commander would be faced with a lengthy conventional rescue including increased hazards to the patient and rescue personnel. Short

- haul rescue incorporates utilization of the Incident Command System (ICS) and thorough risk analysis procedures to manage the execution of a rescue, and evaluate and implement risk management measures.



### The short

- haul technique has greatly expedited the evacuation of seriously injured people from the backcountry to definitive care facility. A rescue that historically would have taken 18 to 24 hours can now be completed in a fraction of the time, enhancing patient comfort and survivability. The short

- haul technique allows the rescue to be accomplished with fewer personnel than requ ired by conventional rescue means, eliminates the need for evacuations over hazardous technical terrain reducing risk exposure to victims and rescue personnel alike. Under certain situations, the rescue of an individual would not have been possible withou t the short

- haul technique. However as with any helicopter application, risks exist and consequences are potentially fatal to all participants.

Short

- haul becomes the tool of choice when incident sites are too small to land in safely yet they

are close t o a staging helispot. A primary advantage of the technique is its simplicity. The pilot is called upon to perform a simple long

- line sling load technique identical to those they conduct during the course of routine fire and project external cargo work, wh ile rescue personnel need only clip into and out of the system using conventional rescue rigging equipment and predetermined communications protocols. No descending device is required and hover time is

minimal.

HISTORY

The Yellowstone short

- haul rescue program is an out growth of the helirappel program that was started in conjunction with Grand Teton Park in 1985. Five Yellowstone helitack crew members and four West Yellowstone Interagency Fire Center (WYIFC) smokejumpers completed a 40 hour training se ssion taught by personnel from Yosemite National Park and the Office of Aircraft Services (OAS) from Boise, Idaho. The helicopter used was an Aerospatial SA 315B,

Lama.

In July 1986, OAS personnel came to Yellowstone to continue with the helirappel and sh ort

- haul training. They worked with personnel from the RMVP staff and the West Yellowstone Interagency Fire Center to establish helirappel and short

- haul procedures for the 'Lama'. Ten additional personnel from the Resource Management & Visitor Protection staff and four WestQuestions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 23 Field Code Changed 

### Yellowstone Interagency Fire Center personnel completed the requisite training to become approved helirappellers. Three additional spotters were approved.

By 1989 the shortcomings of helirappel were becoming apparent. These include d but were not limited to, prolonged hover time, movement through the confined space of the helicopter, reliance upon a descending device and most important, no extraction capability. Short

- haul was examined as an alternative by OAS and Grand Teton person nel. The Yellowstone program reflects subsequent guidelines developed by OAS, the Interagency Steering Committee and the meeting between OAS and Grand Teton personnel.

In 1991, Denali National Park authorized a short

- haul program. The following year a

Ye llowstone National Park helitack crewmember was detailed to Denali annually to manage the Denali exclusive use contract helicopter. Due to the fact that the parks were using identical

aircraft and had a common personnel link, Yellowstone chose to have its program reflect many of Denali's procedures. Upon returning from Denali each summer, the Yellowstone detailer possessed many new innovations developed in Alaska. Communications protocols were kept the same to avoid confusion on the part of the detailer . Though Denali hired the detailer as a permanent employee in 1999, the decision was made to keep the programs parallel due to the previous successes realized in safety and mission efficiency.

Versions of the short

- haul technique have been used for over 2 0 years by European, and Parks Canada rescue personnel, as well as the US military. The technique has been in use in Parks Canada since the early 1970's with no accidents during the course of approximately 1000 rescue missions and at least that many traini ng flights.

In the years since its inception, the short

- haul program has witnessed steady refinement and improvement each year. Yellowstone personnel participate on the Interagency Steering Committee, which recommends short

- haul program policy and training standards to Helicopter Operation Specialists from all agencies. Yellowstone's program incorporates these national standards and will continue to adjust, reflecting change occurring within the national program.

**SAFETY**

All operations will comply with the f ollowing regulatory documents:

1. USDOI, DM 350

- 354, Aviation Policy

2. RM/DO

- 60 (Aviation Management Guidelines)

3. DOI 351 DM 1, Helicopter Short

- haul Handbook

4. The Interagency Helicopter Operations Guide(IHOG)

5. Intermountain Region Aviation Management Plan

6. Yellows tone National Park Aviation Management Plan

7. 14 Code of Federal Regulations (Federal Aviation Regulations)

8. 29 CFR 1910. 132 (d) (occupational safety code)

9. National Fire Protection Association codes 1983 and 1006



### IN ADDITION TO THE A BOVE DOCUMENTS, YELL OWS TONE SHORT

- HAUL

OPERATIONS WILL BE G UIDED BY THE FOLLOWI NG STANDARD AVIATION

SAFETY PRINCIPLES LI STED BELOW.

**1.** Use of risk analysis

a. Standard Yellowstone Aviation Risk Analysis (Appendix A) will be used as part of

pre

- flight planning as it would be for any other type mission.

b. The Short

- haul Risk Analysis (Appendix B) will be used for all helicopter supported SAR missions based on data collected during the recon flight of the scene.

c. Risk analyses used must have measurable “go/no go” parameters and be base dQuestions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 24 Field Code Changed 

### upon the DOI Helicopter Short

- haul Handbook guidelines.

d. All risk analyses must be documented at the time of the recon flight and included in the final report packet.

**2.** Pilot input In addition to all pilot authorities and responsibilities outlined in the re gulatory documents, the pilot will also play a key decision making role in the short

- haul arena regarding the following areas of concern.

a. Provide input regarding appropriate mission staffing and aircrew configuration. As per IHOG chapter 10, Section IV, " The pilot has final authority regarding carrying an aircrew member during external load operations".

b. Pilot will provide input in determining other mission considerations as indicated by site specific safety needs derived from the risk analyses.

**3.** Use of alt ernative rescue capabilities/techniques

a. Hover

- Step (with appropriate waiver and training program in place)

b. Crew shuttle ground rescue team

c. Long

- line cargo to ground rescue personnel

**4.** Maximum helicopter performance

a. Limit payload to maximize helicopter perfor mance
1. Meticulous fuel management

2. Limit aircrew members to the minimum necessary number

3. Utilize standard gear inventory based on minimum scene time/risk exposure (Appendix C)

4. Use of recon flight to gauge winds for safest approach

**5.** Operational flexibility

a. Uti lization of external spotter for all short

- haul missions.

b. Ability to tailor operational procedures to terrain/helispot management concerns

c. Utilize full gamut of EMS options based upon totality of incident circumstances.

d. Use of rope extensions to mitigate r otor clearance concerns.

**6.** Limit exposure All possible measures will be taken to limit cumulative risk exposure:

a. short

- haul distance: seek closest staging area possible

b. limit number of evolutions at the incident site

c. limit number of short

- haulers/spotters on the rope

d. minimize total number of aircrew members

7. Sterile cockpit All operation will be conducted with simple, preset commands between pilot and spotter to limit pilot distractions.

8. Best Observation Perspective

Defer distance judg e ments to crew members having best perspective regarding:

a. Rotor clearance

b. Patient/victim condition (panicked or combative)

c. Scene/landing site characteristics (vegetation concerns, poor footing etc.)

d. Closing distances to the ground during landing

9. Two

- way Co mmunications Loop

Conduct spotter function from the end of the rope. Persons on the rope will have direct

communications with the pilot creating a simple two

- way communications loop. In the

event of communications loss, the short

- haul spotter will revert to hand pre determined and

practiced hand signals. Should communications become untenable, the mission will be

aborted at either the pilot’s or spotter’s discretion. The spotter would signal this by giving

the appropriate hand signal for “emergency, tak e us to the ground”.Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 25 Field Code Changed 

### Personal Protective Equipment

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory for all Special Use DOI aircraft activities (350 DM 3.9). The Aviation Life Support Equipment Handbook (ALSE 351 DM 1) is the regulatory authority for PPE policy issues.

1. All PPE to be used in the aircraft shall adhere to the ALSE handbook.

2. PPE outside the aircraft (i.e. on the line)

a) Helmets: For short

– haulers, an approved aviator’s helmet as defined in the

ALSE handbook is recommended. A cli mbing helmet (Petzyl, Camp, Climb High or equivalent brand that is Union International Alpine association (UIAA) or CE approved) is also permitted.

b) Footwear : 

### Short

- haulers shall utilize footwear that is appropriate for mission safety (e.g. rock climbin g shoes, cold weather mountaineering boots, etc.)

Additional equipment includes the following items. All rigging equipment must be NFPA 1983 and 1006, and 29 CFR 1910. 132(d) compliant.

Rope

- 13 mm (1/2 inch) or greater, static kern mantle rope tied doub le with a double fisherman's knot and rigged with double figure 8 knots at each end.

Weight bag

- a bag weighing 15

- 20 lbs. attached near the end of the short

- haul line to prevent it from rising into the tail rotor.

Carabiners

- (2) locking "D" carabiners , preferably steel but aluminum is acceptable.

Harness

- commercially sewn seat harness or harness sewn by licensed Master Rigger

Slings

- (2) 45cm double ended woven sling and/or commercial daisy chain.

In addition a radio with frequencies compatible t o those in the helicopter is required as well as an interconnect compatible with the helmet being worn.



### PPE deviations will be addressed as per procedures outlined in the IHOG, Chapter 6 and the ALSE waiver process.Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 26 Field Code Changed 

### PROGRAM MANAGEMENT



### General program mana gement guidelines are included to alleviate the need for the user to consult a variety of documents.

Annual Review

Due to the profound hazards inherent to this activity, this plan will be reviewed annually by the Park Superintendent in consultation with t he Chief Ranger and Park Aviation Manager. The sign off sheet is attached as Appendix F.

**Mission Approval**



### Short

- haul training and demonstration flights shall be approved in writing on the daily plan by the Park Aviation Manager or designate before the ex ecution of the mission.

The IHOG states in Chapter 3, Section II, that the line officer (Superintendent) is responsible for the "go/no go" decision associated with high

- risk activities. The Yellowstone Park Superintendent has delegated this authority to the Park Aviation Manager via the park aviation management plan. The Park Aviation Manager may delegate authority for short

- haul approval

for SAR missions to the Incident Commander. The Incident Commander will ensure the completion of the short

- haul ris k analysis and make the "go/no go" decision in consultation with the pilot and mission spotter.

Pilots and Aircraft

Only pilots and aircraft specifically approved by OAS AMD to perform short

- haul operations

will be utilized. Pilots must have trained with park personnel on these techniques prior to actual mission use. The spotter and pilot must have a minimum of two short

- haul evolutions annually before conducting an actual mission.

The helicopter must be equipped with air to ground communications, doors that can be removed or locked back into place, and a load mirror.

Short

- haul lines will not be solely attached to the aircraft cargo hook. An approved back

- up anchor system must be used. The Yellowstone program incorporates a three

- ring release system

fastened to an OAS AMD approved hard point near the cargo hook. The pilot has the ability to release this device mechanically without changing position.

Pilot duty hours will comply with contractual requirements. It is the duty of the pilot to keep th e Helitack Foreman informed as of his status relative to those guidelines. There are no additional duty hour restrictions pertinent to short

- haul missions. Crew duty hours will comply with national wildland firefighter duty limitations.Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 27 Field Code Changed 

### Pilot Require ments

Pilots will comply with all requirements outlined in the Interagency Short

- Haul operations Guide (351 DM1). Pilots will be tested at the start of the seasonal contract and will be expected to participate in the annual short

- haul training and refres hers put on at the start of the seasonal helicopter contract period.

Training flights will be conducted to provide the pilots experience in flying objects using

the short

- haul system. The first flights will involve inanimate objects, i.e. logs, bags of rocks, etc. Final application comes during the last phase of the test during which there is a practical application in placement of the short

- haul litter into typical terrain during typical weather conditions. From there training continues putting short

- haulers into typical terrain for several

evolutions until short

- haulers and pilot are comfortable and familiar with operating procedures.

**OPERATIONS**

**Procedures**

All Short

- haul operations will be conducted in accordance with the procedures outlined in this plan.

The Short

- haul rescue technique may be used under any of the following situations.

- The injured person exhibits airway problems, respiratory distress and/or evidence of circulatory compromise.

- significant freezing of extremities as to limit mobility i s present

- When a conventional rescue would expose rescue team members to a high degree of personal

risk. There are a number of locations in the area where a conventional litter lowering or raising operation would expose the team and the victim(s) to a gre ater risk than would be experienced in the use of the short haul technique.

- A short

- haul may be considered for use if the “totality of the circumstance” indicates that this technique would be the best way to proceed. Factors such as the duration and diffi culty of a conventional evacuation, patient safety and possible medical complications, transport time to a definitive care facility, weather (past, present and predicted), locations and manpower availability should be considered.

Rescue personnel may be e xtracted from the incident site using short

- haul at the conclusion of a rescue when there is an immediate threat to their life, health, or safety. Rescue personnel will normally be removed to the nearest safe available helispot at the conclusion of a resc ue.

An attendant with each patient will be used unless the pilot determines aircraft performance shows there is inadequate power and control margin to lift and carry the additional weight, based on the helicopter load calculation. If an attendant is flown with the patient attendant must be spotter qualified or there must be a spotter and both ends of the evolution

CPR will not be conducted in

- flight during a short

- haul rescue.

Body recoveries can be performed using short

- haul technique with an attendant. An attendant may fly with the body during recovery. Typically the decedent will be slung out using a cargo net, rescue litter, screamer suit or by their harness. If the attendant flies out with the body, the body will be hooked to a tag line so the body hangs below the attendant’s feet.

Rescue personnel will “clip in” directly to the end of the short

- haul line using two locking carabiners via a commercially made harness that adheres to one or more of the following
standards; NFPA 1983, NFPA certified cla ss III, ANSI Z359.1

- 1992 or CE standards. Additionally, harnesses conforming to the CE standard shall conform to EN 12277, the European Standard for “Mountaineering equipment

- Harnesses

- safety requirements and test methods”.Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 28 Field Code Changed 

### Carrying personnel in the shor t

- haul configuration during training is restricted to maintaining conditions that would simulate those experienced in an actual mission.

Maximum forward air speed is 52 Knots (60 mph)

**Mission Planning**

Mission planning for short

- haul is composed of the sam e activities as any other helicopter operation as articulated in the Yellowstone National Park Aviation Management Plan. The following activities are emphasized for short

- haul mission planning for safety purposes. They are generally components of the ris k analysis process.



### Load Calculations

The pilot will complete a helicopter load calculation, OAS AMD form 67, prior to take off from the base and a second time utilizing the data gathered during the reconnaissance flight. The load

calculation for the first short

- haul evolution may be utilized for subsequent evolutions if pertinent conditions remain constant and if payloads remain equal to or less than the payload of the first evolution. Established fixed weight reduction weights will be incorporated into th e load calculations. Hover out of ground effect (HOGE) will be used for load calculations.

Wind Restrictions

Light helicopters are precluded from performing Special Uses (mountain landings, short

- hauls, etc.) when wind speeds exceed 30knots/36 mph or when gust spreads exceed 15 knots/18 mph. Light helicopters may fly cross

- country above 500 AGL under conditions when wind speeds do not exceed 50 knots. More specific wind limitations are described for each Special Use technique.

Flight Restrictions

No specia l use helicopter flights will be undertaken unless there is a minimum of 1/2

- mile visibility. All flights will remain clear of clouds. Flight operations will be conducted in accordance with DEPARTMENTAL MANUAL 351, Chapter 1, Section 8: Helicopter Flight Limitations. For planning purposes those times from 1/2 hour before sunrise until 1/2 hour after sunset may be used.

Reconnaissance Flight

Prior to conducting a mission, a preliminary load calculation will be prepared for a reconnaissance check flight. Pr ior to performing the actual short

- haul the pilot and spotter will fly the incident scene checking winds and temperatures and location of nearest LZ.

. If a suitable helispot can be located within reasonable distance of the incident site the medivac will p roceed

without the use of short

- haul. If none exists, initiation of short

- haul techniques will proceed.

During the recon flight, primary and secondary staging areas will be identified and selected. The pilot will determine outside air temperature (OAT) , wind direction and speed, density altitude of site, rotor clearance, and perform a hover and power check. The spotter is responsible for estimating the weight of any patient(s) to be picked up, obstructions in the area, ground characteristics of site (s mall ledge, scree slope, need for tag line, etc). The Incident Commander and spotter then complete the Helicopter Risk Analysis based on the data gathered from this flight and the input of the pilot. Based on all of these activities, the pilot then infor ms the Incident

Commander whether or not short

- haul mission falls within the performance and power limitations of the helicopter and can be conducted with an adequate safety margin

At the staging area, a second load calculation will be prepared based on i nformation from the recon flight if necessary. A procedural review will be conducted prior to conducting the actual

short

- haul mission. The Incident Commander will make the go/no go decision in consultationQuestions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 29 Field Code Changed 

### with the Pilot, Incident Commander and the spot ter at this time. The pilot has the final authority to turn down any mission.

**Operational Sequence**

The operational sequence is required procedure. Following the recon flight, the helicopter flies to the incident staging helispot with the short

- haul equi pment and rescue personnel on board (number of personnel dependent upon allowable payload). Equipment to include: short

- haul pack, survival gear, litter or screamer suit, and additional medical equipment (as needed).

Extra rescue personnel are dropped off . Loose cargo in the cabin is removed or secured. Pilot prepares a new load calculation if conditions warrant. A review of procedures is conducted with Spotter, Pilot and other rescue personnel.

Spotter (this person may also be a short

- haul rescuer) rigs the end of short

- haul line(s) to the helicopter. Spotter goes through the four

- step check of the short

- haul line attachment. The four

step check consists of:

1. Checking that all attachment points in system are attached correctly

2. Ensuring that manual hook release functions

3. Ensuring that powered hook release functions

4. Ensuring that three ring release is functioning properly

The Spotter then inspects the line, knots and the weight bag for damage. For the sake of redundancy, the other short

- haul rescuer chec ks the line attachment, knots and weight bag. All persons to be short hauled will have their harness and attachment point "buddy" checked.

Following the 'buddy' check the Spotter completes a radio check with the aircraft and announces

" **ready"**

. The pilot says **"coming up"** . The pilot brings the line to the short

- haulers. Spotter grasps the loops at the end of the short

- haul rope and says, **"got it"** . The pilot gives the command **"hook up"** when he is satisfied with the stability of the hover. Short

- haulers hook up and give each other a thumbs up when they are ready and have buddy checked each others attachment points. The spotter notifies the pilot that they are ready to be lifted by saying, **"ready"** . The pilot acknowledges by saying, **"coming up"**

.

Rescuer s are short

- hauled to the incident site. Rescuers can assist pilot with depth perception by calling out vertical distance remaining, starting at 20 feet. Upon landing the spotter says **"down".**

When both short

- haulers have gained a stable stance the spott er says, **"secure"** . The pilot gives approval to **"unhook"**

.

Upon unhooking the spotter informs the pilot that they are **"clear"** . Pilot departs incident site. Helicopter performs normal flight to the helispot or orbits until rescue personnel have completed

al l preparations for extraction.

A screamer suit or harness may be used for extraction of a subject instead of a rescue litter if injuries do not require a litter. The use of the victim's own harness is not approved for short

- haul.

Rescue personnel inform p ilot they are ready for pickup and the entire procedure communication sequence is repeated.

Pilot lowers load to receiving personnel. Pilot holds hover when the load is 4 to 5 feet off ground. Receiving personnel stabilize litter and pilot lowers final di stance to ground. When litter is on the ground, receiving team disconnects short

- haul line following pilot approval. Rescue personnel signal helicopter that the litter is disconnected, and immediately reassess the patient.

Pilot lands the helicopter. Whe n ground personnel are ready, short

- haul equipment is removed from aircraft, inspected and stowed. Patient is transported to a definitive

- care facility internally,

via transfer to life

- flight or by ground ambulance. Formatted: StrikethroughQuestions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 30 Field Code Changed 

### Emergency Procedures

Preplanning emerge ncy procedures is the cornerstone of effective risk management. Yellowstone

short

- haul participants will routinely and actively engage in in

- depth discussions and contextual exercises to explore the wide variety of potential short

- haul emergencies and act ions necessary to mitigate them. The pilot must be an active participant in these exercises as effective “cockpit resource management” should be part of this process.

It is imperative that everyone involved in the short

- haul program understand how quickly an in n

flight emergency can occur . Survivability of short

- haul personnel during an in

- flight emergency is best accomplished by having suspended personnel remain attached to the aircraft as it makes and emergency landing. **Release of the short**

**- haul line**  **i s not**  **an operational consideration while human external cargo (HEC) is attached beneath the aircraft. The short** 

**- haul line will not be**  **jettisoned . The only exception is line entanglement, or the probability that this may happen** 

**. In case of an aircraft em**  **ergency, the pilot will conduct a landing (e.g. autorotation) with HEC**

**attached to the short**

**- haul line.**  **The choice by any short**

**- hauler to cut away from the line is a**  **personal decision depending on the circumstances and best chance for survival.**

In the eve nt that radio communications are lost during the short

- haul mission, hand signals will

be used to finish the short

- haul evolution. Arms outstretched to the sides indicate a problem signaling the pilot to take the short

- haul rescuers to the ground immediat ely. Other hand signals

are as follows:

Spotter

**Ready**

− lift arms from sides to over head repeatedly in standard "lift sling" signal

**Down and Comfortable**

− Personnel use one hand to pat the top of their helmet until pilot nods to

unhook.

**Clear**

− push short

- ha ul line away

Pilot

**Coming up**

− gently raise helicopter

**Hook up**

− bring line to short

**-** haulers, nod head when hover is stable

**Unhook**

− nod head when hover is stable

**DOCUMENTATION**



### All short

- haul operations, training or actual mission uses, will be thoroughly do cumented

- Each time a rope is used, the use will be logged.

- Each time a spotter deploys a short

- haul evolution, that deployment will be logged.

A Fire Cache Training Form will be completed to document all short

- haul training. A 10

- 344 (Supplemental Cas e Incident report) will be completed and included with the SAR case incident report. This 10

- 344 will be entitled "Air Operations Summary" and will thoroughly detail all aspects of air operations conducted during the mission. It will also include a copy o f the radio log. The OAS AMD

− 23 flight use record will also reflect flight use devoted to short

− haul. Formatted: Highlight

Formatted: HighlightQuestions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 31 Field Code Changed 

### QUALIFICATIONS

Spotter

Those persons involved in the short

- haul program as spotters must have the following qualifications:

• Pass an Arduous Duty Physical Examination every year.

• Achieve a satisfactory performance on the NWCG arduous work capacity test annually.

• Must be a member of the park aviation management program as evidence shows the increased potential for accidents when complex operations are un dertaken by incidental

users.

• Participate in the short

- haul program as a short

- haul rescuer for 3 seasons

• Meet all requirements as noted in the DOI Short

- haul Handbook

• Must be Helicopter Manager qualified to NWCG 310

− 1 standard.

• Must complete Basic Aviatio n Safety Refresher annually

Short

- hauler

• Must complete Basic Aviation Safety Refresher annually

• Must complete a ground mock

- up and communications review

• Must be essential to the completion of the rescue mission

• Meet all requirements as identified in the D OI Short

- haul Handbook

All short

- haul rescuers must be accompanied by a qualified short

- haul spotter.

Recertification

Each year personnel involved in short

- haul will complete the three 3 hour short

- haul course. Each training program will be limited to 12 individuals to assure complete training for the persons involved. The training will cover the following topics:

• Rigging

• Communications

• Operational procedures and guidelines

• Conduct at least 2 mock

- ups

• Conduct at least 2 evolutions in typical terrain

• Heli copter safety

• Helispot management

Proficiency

Refer to the DOI Helicopter Short

- haul Handbook Chapter 2.4Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 32 Field Code Changed 

### APPENDIX A Yellowstone Aviation Risk Analysis

**Method**

Is this flight necessary? Yes No

Is the mission plan in writing? Yes No

Are all participants current regarding appropriate aviation safety training? Yes No

Ar e communications adequate? Yes No

Is flight following established? Yes No

Is this the best way to accomplish proj ect objectives? Yes No

Have all passengers and cargo been manifested? Yes No

If a backcountry landing is anticipated, have you secured approval? Yes No

**Mediu m** 

Is there a potential for airspace conflict? Has it been mitigated? Yes No

Are all the hazards identified and have you made them known? Yes No

Can mission objectives be achieved without flying below 500 fee t? Yes No

Is predicted visibility within established flight minimums? Yes No

Are predicted winds within established acceptable ranges? Yes No

Can the mission be accomplished in the allotted time? Yes No

**Man**

Is the pilot carded for the mission? Yes No

Is the pilot comfortable with the mission requirements? Yes No

Are you comfortable with the pilot's ability to complete the mission? Yes No

Is one individual in charge of the requesting party? Who? Yes No

You are not driven by an overwhelmi ng sense of urgency? Yes No

Can you justify your actions? Yes No

Do you have an escape route? Yes No

Has a load calculation been completed? Yes No

Do all passengers have appropriate PPE? Yes No

Will the flight be conducted within the pilot's duty limitations? Yes NoQuestions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 33 Field Code Changed 

### Are adequate numbers of personnel assigned to conduct the mission? Yes No

Have all participants received an aircraft briefing from the pilot? Yes No

Has the pilot been adequately briefed as to mission goals and the route? Yes No

Is everyone involved comfortable with all portions of the mission? Yes No

Has everyone involved had the opportunity to review the missio n plan? Yes No

Is everyone involved aware that the pilot is in command of the mission? Yes No

Is everyone aware that they need not tolerate unsafe acts by the pilot? Yes No

**Machine**

Do you have adequate fuel? Yes No

Is the aircraft carded for the mission? Yes No

Is aircraft maintenance current and documented? Yes No

If each of the questions can be answered "Yes", the mission has adequate planning and is a "go". If a "no" is recorded, the situation must be mitigated or the mission is a "no go".Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 34 Field Code Changed 

### APPENDIX B **Short**

**- haul Risk Analysis** 

Wind Speed / Direction ________ Knots________ **Go Caution**  **No Go**

0 to 24 Knots

------------------------------------------ 

24 to 30 Knots

-------------------------------------------------------- 

30 + Knots

--- ------------------------------------------------------------------- 

Wind Gust Spread _______ Knots

0 to 12 Knots

------------------------------------------- 

12 to 15 Knots

-------------------------------------------------------- 

15 + Knots

---- ------------------------------------------------------------------ 

Rotor Pitch ___

0 to .85

---------------------------------------------------- 

.85 to .90

---------------------------------------------------------------- 

.90 +

-------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------- 

Rotor Clearance ___________ Feet

36 + feet

-------------------------------------------------- 

18 to 36 feet

------------------------------------------------------------ 

0 to 18 feet

-------- ------------------------------------------------------------------- 

Visibility __________ Miles

1⁄2 mile plus

----------------------------------------------- 

0 to 1⁄2 miles

------------------------------------------------------------------- ------- 

Turbulence

None

------------------------------------------------------- 

light to moderate

------------------------------------------------------ 

severe

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

Helicopt er Rescue time limits (SUNSET)

3 to 14 hours

---------------------------------------------- 

1 to 3 hours

------------------------------------------------------------ 

0 to 1 hour

---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

Helicopter trained personnel

well trained

----------------------------------------------- Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 35 Field Code Changed 

### some helicopter training

--------------------------------------------- 

never around helicopters

----------------------------------------------------------- 

Pilot Briefed & Trained in mission type

Knows Area area , mission & trained well

----------------- 

Knows mission, some training, & was told about hazards

----- 

*** Told mission & limited training

-----------------------------------  ***

Ground Base Rescue

12 + hours

------------------------------------------------- 

3 to 12 hours

---------------------------------------------------------- 

***1 to 3 hours

-----------------------------------------------------------  ***

Patient

Critical

----------------- ---------------------------------- 

Delayed

--------------------------------------------------------------- 

*** Deceased

--------------------------------------------------------------  ***

Mission Planning

Management Approved

---------- ------------------------ 

Load Calculation done

----------------------------------- 

Within allowable payload

------------------------------- 

Have enough fuel for the mission

---------------------- 

Fuel truck is pre

- positioned

----------------------------- 

Communications are acceptable

----------------------- 

There are many subjective elements in this analysis. It is meant to be a guide through a thought process. Sound judgment is the key.

*** proceed with **extreme caution** , the r isk/benefit ratio is especially questionable

Must be appropriate mitigation for cautions and no go’s if mission is to move forward.Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 36 Field Code Changed 

### Appendix C Standard Short

- haul Equipment List

Short

- haul rope with weight bag

Short

- ha ul extension rope

Ferno Scoop Litter/Vacu Body Splint

Baumann Bag

2 screamer suits

2 slings

8 locking carabiners

1 tag line with carabiners

1 orange disposable cargo net

Sleeping bag

Ripper knife with tether

1 climbing helmet (solely for use wit h victim that has head injuries preventing the use of an SPH

- 5 flight helmet)

V

- vac or portable electric suction unit

Appropriate EMS kit

Flight helmet/portable radio interconnectQuestions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 37 Field Code Changed **A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **D C**  **S H**  **O R**  **T**

**- H**  **A U**  **L P**  **R O**  **F I**  **C I**  **E N**  **C Y**  **T E**  **S T**  **: C**  **O U**  **R S**  **E R**  **E Q**  **U I**  **R E**  **M E**  **N T**  **S**

**The Shor t** 

**- Haul**  **evaluation consists of two courses that can be set up as a temporary or permanent** 

**site. The materials that are used may vary, but the dimensions must be constructed as follows:**

**A. Phase One**  **evaluation Course:**  Construct a highly visible **circle** ten (1 0) feet in diameter with at a

minimum of four (4) small diameter poles that extend from the surface to a height of six (6) feet,

spaced equally around the perimeter of the circle. This course should be set up in an area tha t gives

adequate clearance for the helicopter to approach and depart and have safe clearance to complete

hover turns. The course must be clearly identifiable to the pilots from the air.

**6’**

**A.**

**10’**

**A. Phase two**  **Evaluation Course:**  Construct a Square Course with sides Fifty (50) feet in length. At

each of the corners, a three (3) foot diameter circle should be placed with its center on th e corner. The course should be set up in a clear area, so that the helicopter can hover turn at each circle. The

four (4) circles must be clearly identifiable to the pilots from the air.Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 38 Field Code Changed **B.**

**50’**

**3’**



### SHORT

**- HAUL PILOT**  **PRACTICAL TEST**  **STANDARD**

**Prior to the evaluation, the short**

**- haul course and procedures will be discussed will the applicant** 

**.**

The short

- haul pilot pr oficiency evaluation consists of four phases. All four phases of the evaluation must be

successfully completed in order to pass. Pilots will have three cha nces to successfully complete the four phases

of the evaluation

. When the four phases of the evalu ation have been successfully passed, the pilot can then

advance to the short

- haul training provided by the approved agency.

The proficiency evaluation is based on “optimal” weather conditions. Variations from the following evaluation

standards, resulting from the existing weather conditions, other than “optimal”, at the location where the

evaluation takes place, will be discussed by the Inspector Pilot, Short

- haul Check Spotter, and the Pilot to be

evaluated prior to the evaluation.Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 39 Field Code Changed 

### PHASE I

**– Precision L**  **ong**

**- line** 

**Objective:**

Observe and evaluate the pilot’s skills and ability for vertical reference flight. Observe the pilot’s control of

the helicopter as well as the load. Observe the pilot’s response to variable weather elements that may be

present.

**Procedure:**

With a line length appropriate for the using unit (minimum 100 feet) and a load 6

- 8 foot long, weighing 150

to 200 pounds, the pilot will depart and fly a normal traffic pattern. Upon return, the pilot will place the load

over a designated c ourse (10 foot diameter circle) at a load altitude not to exceed 6 feet and maintain

complete control and stability of the load within the area for 2 out of 3 minutes. If the load contacts the

ground and such contact causes the load to tilt or contact is used to stop the load from swinging, failure of

this Phase will occur. The helicopter should be rigged so the load is suspended, as it would be during normal

short

- haul operations.



### PHASE II

**– Load Control and Placement** 

**Objective:**

To observe and eva luate the pilot’s ability to control, maneuver and precisely place loads on predetermined

spots. To observe the pilot’s reactions to existing weather conditions and its effects on the ability of the pilot

to maintain control and maneuver the helicopter an d load.

**Procedure:**

With the same length of line and load, the pilot will demonstrate load control and placement by flying the load

through a predetermined ground course

. This will be a square course with four (4) circles, (3 feet in

diameter), one at each of the corners. The pilot will maneuver the load at an altitude not to exceed 6 feet

above the surface without touching the ground except in the targets. The pilot will maneuver the load in line

with each side of the course and place the load on the ground inside each of the circles. All load placements

must be done in a manner that demonstrates that the pilot has complete control of the load and the vertical

rate of decent at touchdown. When the load is placed on the ground, it should not tilt and such contact with

the ground should not be used to stop the load ’ s momentum. The pilot can start the course at any corner.

**There is no time limit on this portion of the evaluation.**Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 40 Field Code Changed 

### PHASE III

**– Typical Terrain** 

**Objective:**

To observe the interface be tween the pilot, spotter and ground personnel. To observe the pilot’s control of

loads and judgment operating in typical terrain.

**Procedure:**

To emphasize the precision placement of loads on predetermined targets. This maneuver will be repeated by

plac ing a load in the type of terrain that is typically encountered during operations. Typical terrain may

include the following: confined areas, cliff areas. Narrow or confined ridge crests, confined pinnacles, areas of

moving water, snowfields or glaciers. If the using unit is operating in areas where lighting variations or

background contrast is a factor, flight operations under these conditions should be demonstrated.

Additionally, a spotter will be aboard the aircraft when the spotter ’ s presence s in the aircraft is part of the

using unit’s operational plan.

The last element will be an exercise for the pilot and spotter to demonstrate crew coordination for a

simulated emergency procedure s by releasing the primary and secondary anchors (i

. e. Cargo hook an d belly

band or three ring release). Simulated emergency procedures will be accomplished using a n non

- weighted

line. (This exercise should be accomplished using a practice rope and/or anchor system, the rope and anchor

used **will not** be reused for actual short

- haul operations)



### PHASE IV

**- Human Short** 

**- Haul** 

**Objective:**

To observe the pilot during a human short

- haul operation. To evaluate the pilot’s control of the aircraft and

the load during the operation.

**Procedure:**

Upon successful completion of the above three phases, the pilot will demonstrate the ability to work with a

human on the end of the short

- haul line. The pilot must demonstrate the ability to place a human at a

predetermined target with the same tolerance as outlined in phase II. The pil ot shall demonstrate total

control of the load at all times.Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 41 Field Code Changed It should be noted, that if the inspector identifies deficiencies, in airmanship or operational knowledge

areas (not directly addressed in the mission evaluation) tha t could adversely affect contract performance, it

will be at the inspector ’ s ’ discretion to further explore those areas and/or terminate the evaluation.

**NOTES: “HUMAN”**  **is a fully qualified short**

**- haul person.** 



### Inspector Instructions For Pilot Carding (Short

**- Haul)** 

The Departmen t of the Interior is providing clarification of the approval procedures for Short

- haul pilots. These

procedures were created to ensure standardization of the evaluation process, while providing continuity with

respect to Departmental Policy, The Short Hau l Handbook, Interagency Helicopter Practical Test Standards, and

Contract Specifications.

**Phase One:**

A proficiency evaluation shall be conducted in accordance with the Interagency Helicopter Practical Test

Standards for the Short

- Haul Proficiency Evalua tion. Upon successful completion of the proficiency evaluation,

and verification of documentation by a qualified short

- haul spotter stating that the pilot has completed the

annual training session, the Inspector Pilot will card the pilot for Short

- haul Op erations.

When the pilot has not received the annual concurrent training and the Inspector Pilot is not present during the

training session, the Inspector Pilot may issue a letter to the pilot that authorizes the pilot to participate in the

using unit ’ s an nual short

- haul training session ;

, however this letter does not constitute approval for operational

Short

- haul missions. The pilot and the using Unit will then continue with Phase two and Phase three. (See

approval letter in appendix 3)

**Phase Two:**

The U sing Unit must provide pilots with an annual short

- haul training session. This training shall be conducted

and documented by a qualified short

- haul spotter in accordance with the DOI Helicopter Short

- Haul Handbook.

**Phase Three** :

Upon satisfactory comple tion of the annual short

- haul training listed in Phase two, the using Unit ’ s, Short

- haul

spotter or the aviation manager will forward a signed letter to the Inspector Pilot that the Short haul pilot has

completed the required training. This letter will be placed in the pilot’s file. At this time the pilot will be

“approved and operational” with a short

- haul endorsement on an AMD

- 30B Helicopter Pilot Qualification Card,

and an AMD

- 68 approval document denoting the specific contract.

**NOTE: Upon the appli cant’s satisfactory demonstration of knowledge and skills, and satisfactorily** 

**attend the annual training, the inspector will endorse the applicant’s pilot card:**

“SHORT

- HAUL”

**Endorse the card with the month and year demonstrated.**

**(Example: DO**

**- 04/06) DO**  **= D** emonstrated **O** perationQuestions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 42 Field Code Changed **And the location of the contract base.**

Annual evaluation required

### Appendix B

– Unit Short

- haul Operations Plan (Example)

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 43 Field Code Changed **A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **E T**  **R A**  **I N**  **I N**  **G O**  **U T**  **L I**  **N E** 

**Unit I:** Program Orientation & Overview

Suggested Time: 3

– 4 hours

Training Aids:

Flip chart, Short

- Haul Handbook, Local Short

- H aul Operations Plan, DOI Aviation Life Support Equipment Handbook

(ALSE), Interagency Helicopter Operations Guide (IHOG)

Objectives:

To provide students with a general overview of short

- haul program and policy requirements.

**OUTLINE NOTES** 

M ake sure stude nts have copies of the SH Handbook and local SH

Operations Plan, ALSE Handbook, and IHOG. It is preferable that

students are given these documents, along with other pertinent

reading material, prior to scheduled training.

I. Program history

 Local

 Nation al

II. Review Departmental and Bureau Policy & Guidelines

A. Review SH Handbook

1. User Specific

a. New Programs

b. Pilot Requirements

c. Training Requirements

• Check Spotter

• Spotter

• Short

- hauler

• Annual Re

- qualification

• Proficiency Requirements

d. Operational Req uirements

• Load Calculations

• Flight Restrictions

• Mission Briefing

• Risk Assessment

• Equipment Checks

• Duties

e. In

- flight Emergencies Instructor will review with students policy

requirements and SH guidelines.

Students should understand why and how the

program developed locally and nationally.

(Helicopter SH Handbook, 1.2)

SH Handbook, 1.5

SH Handbook, 2.1

SH H andbook, 2.2

### Appendix B

– Unit Short

- haul Operations Plan (Example)

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 44 Field Code Changed III. Review Local SH Operations Plan

A. User Specific

B. Restrictions

IV. Equipment Orientation

A. Personal Equipment

1. Personal Protecti ve Equipment (PPE)

• Clothing

• Helmet

• Harness

• Daisy Chains

• Other (PFD, Footwear, Packs, etc.)

• Use of PPE Waiver

B. Anchor

1. FAA Approved

• Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)

• Major Repair & Alteration (FAA Form 337)

2. Construction Specifications

3. Installation Procedu res

4. Inspection Requirements

C. Short

- haul Attachment Line(s), pre

- rigged

1. Hardware (carabiners, steel rings, specs & care)

• Material construction & requirements

• Inspection (preflight & postflight)

• Care during use

• Cleaning

• Storage

• Retirement

2. Software (Rope specs & care)

• Construction & requirements

• Inspection (preflight & postflight)

• Care during use

• Cleaning

• Storage

• Retirement

• Knots

• Weight Bag

V. Communications

A. Radio

B. Hand Signal

C. Siren/PA

D. Other

VI. Safety & Emergency Concerns DOI ALSE Handbook, IHOG

Discuss welded rings, types of carabiners,

inspection requirements, maintenance.

### Appendix B

– Unit Short

- haul Operations Plan (Example)

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 45 Field Code Changed A. Hazards & Problems

B. Entanglement

• Prevent ion

• Release procedures

C. Crash Procedures

• Pilot duties

• Spotter duties

• Short

- haul personnel

D. Survival equipment & Use

• Signal mirror

• Signal smoke

• Other

VII. Documentation

A. Training & Qualifications

B. Operational Short

- haul

C. Training Short

- hauls

D. Case Incident Repor ts

E. SAFECOM/Mishaps Instructor and/or check spotter will

demonstrate how to tie knots and see that

students are proficient

.

Standard hand signals will be demonstrated

and practiced.

Review local short

- haul operations plan and

local policy.

Pilot brief students on helicopter and

emergency procedures

### Appendix B

– Unit Short

- haul Operations Plan (Example)

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 46 Field Code Changed **Unit II:** Field Training

Suggested Time: 6

- 12 hours

Training Aids: Helicopter, lifting device, raised platform, ground marker s/targets, local equipment

(SAR/EMS/LE), typical terrain.

Objectives: To train and qualify students in safe short

- haul procedures for specific missions.

**OUTLINE NOTES** 

Step

- by

- step Orientation (with helicopter)

A. Ground mock

- up

1. Pilot briefing

2. Spotter Duties

• Rigs equipment & rope

• Doors removed and secured

• Loose equipment removed/secured

• Radio frequency established

• Radio chec k with pil ot & personnel

Understanding of mission/role

3. SH Personnel Inspection (buddy check)

• Helmet (fit, loose straps)

• Eye Protection

• Ear Protection

• Fire resistant clothing

• Knife

• Radio

• Harness

• Gloves

• Boots

• Pack

• Other equipment

• Communications

II. Static S uspension (SH Personnel)

A. Adjust Harness

B. Practice use of attachment points

III. Lift Training

A. Short

- haul personnel (in pairs if applicable)

B. Students are raised ten feet off ground and set

down.

IV. Circuit Training

A. Use raised platform Spotter and pilot will check cabin and

configuration for short

- haul

The pilot and spotter will install and test

anchor (primary & secondary)

Short

- haulers should observe and double

check this procedure.

Short

- haul rope, knots, carabiners, and

other equipment attached correctly,

checked and operational.

Each short

- hauler will check partner,

working from head to toe.

Check knife for lanyard and easy

accessib ility.

Radio/comm check.

Demonstrate harness adjustment and use

of attachment points.

Conducted at heli

- base or equivalent.

Rotate personnel through training

sequence.

To reduce risk and eliminate line twist,

don’t attach until ropes are completely o ff

the ground.

Weight bag may be kept on the ground to

give pilot a reference point and eliminate

### Appendix B

– Unit Short

- haul Operations Plan (Example)

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 47 Field Code Changed B. Complete 1⁄4 mile circui t

C. Short

- hauler duties (preparation for short

- haul

insertion)

1. Aircraft lifts to hover until rope(s) are off the

ground. Pilot, spotter, and short

- haulers

confirm radio comm.

2. Short

- haulers attach to rope(s) on command

3. Short

- haulers give “ready” signal

4. Pilo t lifts SH’s & flys fl ie s to SH site (raised

platform )

5. Upon arrival, Short

- hauler will radio pilot the

vertical distance from load to the ground (e.g.

“two

- zero feet”, “one

- zero feet”, “down &

comfortable”

6. SH’s unhook from rope(s) on command &

communicate they are clear.

V. Typical Terrain Training

A. Varied Locations

B. Include typical hazards (snow, pinnacle, ledge,

moving water, etc)

C. Pilot duties (recon check flight)

1. Flight following (spotter can assist with

navigation, watching for other aircraft, hazards,

etc)

2. Pilot, spotter, and short

- haul ers will select a

short

- hau l

3. 2. site.

3. Evaluate SH site for:

– proximity to incident

– size

– slope

– rotor clearance

– wind conditions

ver check and Go

- No

- Go decision. ?

5. Selec t landing area to rig for SH

D. Short

- hauler Duties (Extraction)

1. SH’s and/or victim are attached to SH line(s)

on command. Wait until rope is off ground.

2. SH’s give “ready” signal

3. Pilot lifts and flies to landing area

4. Upon arrival, SH’er will radio pilot th e vertical

distance between load and ground (e.g. “two

zero feet”, “one

- zero feet”)

5. SH’er and/or litter is unhooked from rope(s)

on command & communicate to pilot “clear”

VII. Search & Rescue

A. Equipment striking rescuers.

If more than one short

- hauler, one is

responsible for communications, the other

for tending the rope/bag.

Pilot should provide time for SH’ s to

stabilize and secure themselves before

giving the command to disconnect from

rope(s)

Evaluate training locations ahead of time.

Depending upon use, training may be

broken into two scenarios: 1) Short

- hauler

delivery and/or extraction. 2) Litter

d elivery and/or patient extraction.

Depending upon the circumstances, rope

may not leave the ground. This should be

discussed with the pilot and all personnel.

Circumstances may dictate personnel on

the ground to communicate to the pilot

when short

- ha ulers are “ready” and also

provide vertical distance between short

haulers and the ground.

Display & demo various equipment used.

Should be based upon local protocols.

Establish proficiency requirements for

students

Rescue personnel PPE (water ) Formatted: Bullets and Numbering

### Appendix B

– Unit Short

- haul Operations Plan (Example)

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 48 Field Code Changed 1. Litter/Bauman Bag

- Patient protection (packaging)

- Rigging

- Use of tail rope

- Use of drogue chute

2. Rescue net or collar

- Rigging

- Safety precautions

3. Screamer suit

- Rigging

- Safety precautions

B. Terrain

1. Tall timber

2. Cliffs

3. Pinnacles

4. Swiftwater

5. Snow

6. High altitude

VIII. Law Enforcement

A. Equipment

B. Terrai n

C. Other procedures

IX. Typical Mission

A. Create a realistic situation

B. Pilot & spotter briefing

C. Spotter duties

D. Short

- hauler duties

1. Buddy check

2. Preparation for SH

3. Extraction

E. Pilot duties (Recon Check Flight)

X. Critique & Wrap

- up

A. Debrief

B. Review emergency procedures

C. Seek input for program improvement PFD, Wetsuit, booties or sandals,

waterproof communications/radio

Provide students equipment needs for

various

terrain & demo

Establish proficiency requirements for

students.

Planning for mission should be

accomplished with input from instructors

, program manager, pilot and check spotter.

Utilize risk assessment and risk

management tools/procedures.

Everyone encouraged to participate.

Request written evaluations from students.

Document feedback, both positive &

negative.

### Appendix B

– Unit Short

- haul Operations Plan (Example)

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 49 Field Code Changed 

### Appendix F Certification of Annual Review

_____________________________________ Date:_______________

Superintendent, Yellowstone NP

_____________________________________ Date:_______________

Superintendent, Yellowstone NP

_______________________________ ______ Date:_______________

Superintendent, Yellowstone NP

_____________________________________ Date:_______________

Superintendent, Yellowstone NP

_____________________________________ Date:_______________

Superintendent, Yellowstone NP

______________ _______________________ Date:_______________

Superintendent, Yellowstone NP

_____________________________________ Date:_______________

Superintendent, Yellowstone NP

_____________________________________ Date:_______________

Superintendent, Yellowstone N P

_____________________________________ Date:_______________

Superintendent, Yellowstone NP

_____________________________________ Date:_______________

Superintendent, Yellowstone NP

### Appendix C

– Short

- haul Pilot Test

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 50 Field Code Changed **A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **C :**  **S H**  **O R**  **T**

**- H**  **A U**  **L P**  **I L**  **O T**  **P R**  **A C**  **T I**  **C A**  **L T**  **E S**  **T C**  **O U**  **R S**  **E R**  **E Q**  **U I**  **R E**  **M E**  **N T**  **S**

**The Short** 

**- Haul evaluation consists of t**  **wo courses that can be set up as a temporary or permanent** 

**site. The materials that are used may vary, but the dimensions must be constructed as follows.** 

**B. Phase One**  **E valuation**  **C ourse:**  Construct a highly visible **circle** te n (10) feet in diameter with a

minimum of four (4 ) small diameter poles that extend from the surface to an approximate height of

six (6) feet, spaced equally around the perimeter of the circle. This course should be set up in an area

that gives adequate cl earance for the helicopter to approach and depart and have safe clearance to

complete hover turns. The course must be cl early identifiable to the pilot from the air.

**6’**

Diagram A

**.**

**10’**

**C. Phase T**  **wo Evaluation Course:** Construct a square course with sides f ifty (50) feet in length. At

each of the corners, a three (3) foot diameter circle should be placed wit h its center on the corner.

The course s hould be set up in a clear area so that the helicopter can hover turn at each circle. The

four (4) circles must be cl early identifiable to the pilot from the air.

Diagram B.

**50’**

**3’**

### Appendix C

– Short

- haul Pilot Test

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 51 Field Code Changed **SHORT**

**- HAUL PILOT**  **PRACTICAL TEST STANDARD**

**Prior to the evaluation, the short**

**- haul course and procedures will be discussed will the applicant.** 

T he short

- h aul pilot practical test consists of four phases. All four phases of the evaluation must be successfully

completed in succession in order to pass. Pilots will have three chances to successfully complete the four phases

of the evaluation. When the four phases of the evaluation have been successfully passed, the pilot can then

advance to the short

- haul t raining provided by the using agency.

The practical test is based on optimal weather conditions. Variations from the following evaluation stand ards

resulting from the existing weather c onditions at t he location where the test takes place

, will be discussed by the

Inspector Pilot, Short

- haul C heck Spotter and the Pilot to be e valuated prior to the test

.

**PHASE I**

**– Precision Long** 

**- line** 

**Objective:**

To o bserve and evaluate the pilot’s skills and ability for vertical reference flight. Observe the pilot’s control of

the helicopter as well as the load. Observe the pilot’s respo nse to variable weather conditions that may be

present.

**Procedure:**

Wi th a line length appropriate for the using unit (minim um 100 feet) and a load 6

- 8 feet long and weighing

150 to 200 pounds, the pilot will depart and fly a normal traffic pattern. Upon return, the pilot will place the

load over a designated course (10 foo t diameter circle) at a load altitude not to exceed 6 feet and maintain

complete control and stability of the load within the area for 2 out of 3 minutes. If the load contacts the

ground and such contact causes the load to tilt or contact is used to stop the load from swinging, failure of

this Phase will occur. The helicopter should be rigged so the load is suspended as it would be during normal

short

- haul operations.

**PHASE II**

**– Load Control and Placement** 

**Objective:**

To observe and evaluate the pilot ’s ability to control, maneuver and precisely place loads on predetermined

spots. To observe the pilot’s reactions to e xisting weather conditions and their effects on the ability of the

pilot to maintain control and maneuver the helicopter and load.

**Pro cedure:** 

With the same length of line and load as used in Phase I , the pilot will demonstrate load control and

placement by flying the load through a pre determined ground course. This will be a square course with four

(4) circles ( 3 feet in diameter) at each of the corners. The pilot will maneuver the load at an altitude not to

exceed 6 feet above the surface witho ut touching the ground except at the targets. The pilot will maneuver

the load in line with each side of the course and place the load on th e ground inside each of the circles. All

load placements must be done in a manner that demonstrates that the pilot has complete control of the load

and the vertical rate of decent at touchdown. When t he load is placed on the ground it should not tilt and

such contact with the ground should not be used to stop the load ’ s momentum. The pilot can start the course

at any corner. **There is no time limit on this portion of the evaluation.**

### Appendix C

– Short

- haul Pilot Test

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 52 Field Code Changed **PHASE III**

**– Typical Terrain** 

**Objective:**

To observe the inter action be tween the pilot, spotter and ground personnel. To observe the pilot’s control of

loads and judgment operating in typical terrain. To emphasize the precision placement of loads on

predetermined targets.

**Procedure:**

With a line length appropriate to the using unit (minimum 150 feet) and a similar load as used in Phase I, the

pilot will be required to maneuver in typical terrain. Typical ter rain may include cliff areas, n arrow or confined ridge crests, pinnacles , areas of moving water, snowfields or glac iers. If the using unit is operating

in areas where lighting variations or background contrast is a factor, flight operations under these conditions

should be demonstrated. Additionally, a spotter will be aboard the aircraft when the spotter’s presence i n

the aircraft is part of the using unit’s operational plan.

The last element will be an exercise for the pilot and spotter to demonstrate crew coordination for simulated

entanglement procedures by releasing the primary and secondary ancho rs . Simulated p rocedures will be

accomplished using a non

- weighted line. This exercise should be accomplished using a pra ctice rope and/or

anchor system. T he rope and anchor used **will not** be reused f or actual short

- haul operations.

**PHASE IV**

**- Human Short** 

**- Haul** 

**Object ive:** 

To observe the pilot during a human short

- haul operation. To evaluate the pilot’s control of the aircraft and

the load during the operation.

**Procedure:**

Upon successful completion of the above three phases, the pilot will demonstrate the ability to work with a

human on the end of the short

- haul line. The pilot must demonstrate the ability to place a human at a

predetermined target with the same tolerance as outlined in phase II. The pilot shall demonstrate total

control of the load at all times.

**NOTE: “**  HUMAN” is a fully qualified short

- haul person.

It should be noted that if the in spector identifies deficiencies in airmansh ip or operational knowledge (not

directly addressed in the mission evaluation) that could adversel y a ffect contract pe rformance

, it will be at

the inspectors’ discretion to further explore those areas and/or terminate the evaluation.

### Appendix C

– Short

- haul Pilot Test

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 53 Field Code Changed **Inspector Instructions for**  **Pilot Carding: Short** 

**- Haul** 

The Department of the Interior is providing clarific ation of the app roval procedures for s hort

- haul pilots. Th ese procedures were created to i nsure standardiz ation of the evaluation process while provi ding continuity with

departmental p olicy, t he Helicopter Short

- Haul Handbook

, Interagency Heli copter Practical Test Standa rds and

contract s pecifications.

**Phase I**

A proficiency evaluation shall be conducted in accordance with the Interagency Helicopter Practical Test

Standards Short

- haul Handbook for the Short

- Haul Proficiency Evaluation. Upon successful completion of the

proficiency evaluation an d verification by a quali fied short

- haul spotter that the pilot has completed the using

unit’s annual training session, the Inspector Pilot will card the pilot for Short

- haul Operations. When the pilot

has no t received the annual training prior to the practical test, the Inspector Pilot may issue a letter to the pilot

that authorizes the pilot to participate in the using unit ’ s ’ annual short

- haul training session; however this letter

does not const itute approval for operational s ho rt

- haul mis sions. The pilot and the using u nit w ill then continue

with Phase II and Phase III

.

**Phase II** 

The using u nit must provide pilots with an annual short

- haul training session. This training shall be conducted

and documented by a qualified shor t

- haul spotter in accordance with the DOI Helicopter Short

- Haul Handbook.

Upon the applicant’s satisfactory demons tration of knowledge and skills and attend ance at the annual

training, the inspector will endorse the applicant’s pilot card:

“SHORT

- HAUL”

**E ndorse the card with the month and year demonstrated.** 

**(Example: DO**

**- 04/06) DO= D**  emonstrated **O** peration

**List the location of the contract base.** 

**Phase III**

Upon satisfactory completion of the annual short

- haul training listed in Phase two, the using u nit ’ s s hort

- haul

spotter or the aviation manager will forward a signed letter t o the Inspector Pilot that the s hort

- haul pilot has

completed the required training. This letter will be placed in the pilot’s file. At this time the pilot will be

approved and o perational with a short

- haul endorsement on an AMD

- 30B Heli copter Pilot Qualification Card

and an AMD

- 68 approval document denoting the specific contract.

**NOTE:** Annual testing required

.

### Appendix D

– Training Outline

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 54 Field Code Changed **A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **D :**  **E X**  **A M**  **P L**  **E O**  **F T**  **R A**  **I N**  **I N**  **G O**  **U T**  **L I**  **N E** 

**Unit I :**  Program Orien tation & Overview

Suggested Time: 3

– 4 hours

Training Aids:

Flip chart, Short

- Haul Handbook, Local Short

- Haul Operations Plan, DOI Aviation Life Support Equipment Handbook

(ALSE), Interagency Helicopter Operations Guide (IHOG)

Objectives:

To provide st udents with a general overview of short

- haul program and policy requirements.

**OUTLINE NOTES** 

Make sure students have copies of the SH Handbook and local SH

Operations Plan, ALSE Handbook, and IHOG. It is preferable that

students are given these documents , along with other pertinent

reading material, prior to scheduled training.

I. Program history

 Local

 National

II. Review Departmental and Bureau Policy & Guidelines

B. Review SH Handbook

2. User Specific

a. New Programs

f. Pilot Requirements

g. Training Req uirements

• Check Spotter

• Spotter

• Short

- hauler

• Annual Re

- qualification

• Proficiency Requirements

h. Operational Requirements

• Load Calculations

• Flight Restrictions

• Mission Briefing

• Risk Assessment

• Equipment Checks

• Duties

i. In

- flight Emergencies

III. Review Local SH Operations Plan

C. User Specific

D. Restrictions

IV. Equipment Orientation

D. Personal Equipment

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Clothing

• Helmet

• Harness

• Daisy Chains

• Other (PFD, Footwear, Packs, etc.)

• Use of PPE Waiver Instructor will review with students’ policy

requirements and SH guidelines.

Students should understand why and how the

pr ogram developed locally and nationally.

(Helicopter SH Handbook, 1.2)

SH Handbook, 1.5

SH Handbook, 2.1

SH Handbook, 2.2

DOI ALSE Handbook, IHOG

### Appendix D

– Training Outline

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 55 Field Code Changed E. Anchor

5. FAA Approved

• Supplemental Typ e Certificate (STC)

• Major Repair & Alteration (FAA Form 337)

6. Construction Specifications

7. Installation Procedures

8. Inspection Requirements

F. Short

- haul Attachment Line(s), pre

- rigged

3. Hardware (carabiners, steel rings, specs & care)

• Material construction & requ irements

• Inspection (preflight & post flight )

• Care during use

• Cleaning

• Storage

• Retirement

4. Software (Rope specs & care)

• Construction & requirements

• Inspection (preflight & post flight )

• Care during use

• Cleaning

• Storage

• Retirement

• Knots

• Weight Bag

W. Communicati ons

E. Radio

F. Hand Signal

G. Siren/PA

H. Other

VI. Safety & Emergency Concerns

E. Hazards & Problems

F. Entanglement

• Prevention

• Release procedures

G. Crash Procedures

• Pilot duties

• Spotter duties

• Short

- haul personnel

H. Survival equipment & Use

• Signal mirror

• Signal smoke

• Othe r

VII. Documentation

F. Training & Qualifications

G. Operational Short

- haul

H. Training Short

- hauls

I. Case Incident Reports

J. SAFECOM/Mishaps Discuss welded rings, types of carabiners,

inspection requirements, and main tenance

.

Instructor and/or check spotter will

demonstrate how to tie knots and see that

students are proficient.

Standard hand signals will be demonstrated

and practiced.

Review local short

- haul operations plan and

local policy.

P ilot brief students on helicopter and

emergency procedures

### Appendix D

– Training Outline

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 56 Field Code Changed **Unit II:** Field Training

Suggested Time: 6

- 12 hours

Training Aids: Helicopter, lifting device, raised platform, ground markers/targets, and local

equipment

(SAR/EMS/LE), typical terrain.

Objectives: To train and qualify students in safe short

- haul procedures for specific missions.

**OUTLINE NOTES** 

Step

- by

- step Orientation (with helicopter)

B. Ground mock

- up

4. Pilot briefi ng

5. Spotter Duties

• Rigs equipment & rope

• Doors removed and secured

• Loose equipment removed/secured

• Radio frequency established

• Radio check with pilot & personnel

Understanding of mission/role

6. SH Personnel Inspection (buddy check)

• Helmet (fit, loose straps)

• Eye Protection

• Ear Protection

• Fire resistant clothing

• Knife

• Radio

• Harness

• Gloves

• Boots

• Pack

• Other equipment

• Communications

II. Static Suspension (SH Personnel)

C. Adjust Harness

D. Practice use of attachment points

III. Lift Training

C. Short

- haul personnel (in pa irs if applicable)

D. Students are raised ten feet off ground and set

down.

IV. Circuit Training

D. Use raised platform

E. Complete 1⁄4 mile circuit

F. Short

- hauler duties (preparation for short

- haul

insertion)

7. Aircraft lifts to hover until rope(s) are off the

ground. Pilot, spotter, and short

- haulers

confirm radio comm.

8. Short

- haulers attach to rope(s) on command

9. Short

- haulers give “ready” signal

10. Pilot lifts SH’s & flys flies to SH site (raised

platform)

11. Upon arrival, Short

- hauler will radio pilot the

vertical distance from load to the ground (e.g.

“two

- zero feet”, “one

- zero feet”, “down &

comfortable” Spotter and pilot will check cabin and

configuration for short

- haul

The pilot and spotter will install and test

anchor (primary & secon dary)

Short

- haulers should observe and double

check this procedure.

Short

- haul rope, knots, carabiners, and

other equipment attached correctly,

checked and operational.

Each short

- hauler will check partner,

working from head to toe.

Check knife for lanyar d and easy

accessibility.

Radio/comm check.

Demonstrate harness adjustment and use

of attachment points.

Conducted at heli

- base or equivalent.

Rotate personnel through training

sequence.

To reduce risk and eliminate line twist,

don’t attach until rop es are completely off

the ground.

Weight bag may be kept on the ground to

give pilot a reference point and eliminate

striking rescuers.

If more than one short

- hauler, one is

responsible for communications, the other

for tending the rope/bag.

Pilot should p rovide time for SH’s to

stabilize and secure themselves before

giving the command to disconnect from

rope(s)

### Appendix D

– Training Outline

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 57 Field Code Changed 12. SH’s unhook from rope(s) on command &

communicate they are clear.

V. Typical Terrain Training

E. Varied Locations

F. Include typical hazards (snow, pinnacle, ledge,

moving wat er, etc)

G. Pilot duties (recon check flight)

4. 3. Flight following (spotter can assist with

navigation, watching for other aircraft, hazards,

etc)

4. Pilot, spotter, and short

- haulers will select a

short

- haul

6. 4. site.

3. Evaluate SH site for:

– pr oximity to incident

– size

– slope

– rotor clearance

– wind conditions

4. Complete hover check and Go

- No

- Go decision.

5. Select landing area to rig for SH

H. Short

- hauler Duties (Extraction)

6. SH’s and/or victim are attached to SH line (s)

on command. Wa it until rope is off ground.

7. SH’s give “ready” signal

8. Pilot lifts and flies to landing area

9. Upon arrival, SH’er will radio pilot the vertical

distance between load and ground (e.g. “two

zero feet”, “one

- zero feet”)

10. SH’er and/or litter is unhooked from rop e(s)

on command & communicate to pilot “clear”

VI. Cargo Let

- Down

A. Equipment

B. Let

- down line

1. Brake Device

2. Carabiners

3. Knife

4. Line Bag

5. Equipment or cargo bag

6. Aircraft anchor or hard point

C. Operating Procedures

1. Pre

- flight briefing

2. Pre

- flig ht inspection (equipment)

- Spotter

- Helicopter

- Deployment

7. 5. In

- flight duties

8. 6. Deployment

D. Emergency Procedures

1. Helicopter

- Control

- Precautionary

- Power Loss Evaluate training locations ahead of time.

Depending upon use, training may be

broken into two scenarios: 1) Short

- hauler

delivery and/or extr action. 2) Litter

delivery and/or patient extraction.

Depending upon the circumstances, rope

may not leave the ground. This should be

discussed with the pilot and all personnel.

Circumstances may dictate personnel on

the ground to communicate to the pilot

when short

- haulers are “ready” and also

provide vertical distance between short

haulers and the ground.

For cargo let

- down, refer to the

Interagency Helicopter Rappel Guide.

Display & demo various equipment used.

Should be based upon local p rotocols.

Establish proficiency requirements for

students

Rescue personnel PPE (water)

PFD, Wetsuit, booties or sandals,

waterproof communications/radio

Provide students equipment needs for Formatted: Bullets and Numbering

### Appendix D

– Training Outline

Questions regarding the content of this Handbook may be directed to the DOI Aviation Management (DOI AM), 300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste. 200,

Boise, ID 83706

- 3991. Additional copies of this document may be obtained from the Division of Technic al Services at the same web site

address or at http:// www. amd. nbc.gov/ amd 

### 58 Field Code Changed - Catastro phic failure

2. Deployment

- In helicopter

- During Descent

- On the ground

3. Corrective Actions

- Abort

- Lock off

- Fly away

- Cut line

VII. Search & Rescue

C. Equipment

2. Litter/Bauman Bag

- Patient prote ction (packaging)

- Rigging

- Use of tail rope

- Use of drogue chute

2. Rescue net or collar

- Rigging

- Safety precautions

3. Screamer suit

- Rigging

- Safety precautions

D. Terrain

7. Tall timber

8. Cliffs

9. P innacles

10. Swiftwater

11. Snow

12. High altitude

VIII. Law Enforcement

D. Equipment

E. Terrain

F. Other procedures

IX. Typical Mission

F. Create a realistic situation

G. Pilot & spotter briefing

H. Spotter duties

I. Short

- hauler duties

4. Buddy check

5. Preparation for SH

6. Extraction

J. Pilot duties (Recon Check Flight)

Y. Critique & Wrap

- up

D. Debrief

E. Review emergency procedures

F. Seek input for program improvement various

terrain & demo

Establish proficiency requirement s for

students.

Planning for mission should be

accomplished with input from instructors,

program manager, pilot and check spotter.

Utilize risk assessment and risk

management tools/procedures.

Everyone encouraged to participate.

Request written eval uations from students.

Document feedback, both positive &

negative.

### Appendix E

– Hand Signals

59 **A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **E :**  **H A**  **N D**  **S I**  **G N**  **A L**  **S**



### SPOTTER HAND SIGNALS

**Short**

**- hauler’s Hook Up**  **Short**

**- hauler’s Unhook** 

**Wave**

**- off** 

**– Don’t Hook Up!** 

### Appendix E

– Hand Signals

60 **SHORT**

**- HAULER HAND SIGNALS** 

**MOVE UPWARD**  **MOVE DOWNWARD HOLD HOVER** 

**MOVE FORWARD WAVE** 

**- OFF/DON’T LAND**  **OKAY**

**CONNECT DISCONNECT** 

### Appendix F

– Cargo Letdown Procedures

61 **A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **F :**  **C A**  **R G**  **O L**  **E T**  **D O**  **W N**  **P R**  **O C**  **E D**  **U R**  **E S** 

**I. INTRODUCTION** 

" Helicopter cargo letdown ” is defined as the deployment of cargo from a hovering hel icopter by the means of

an approved webbing, descent device, and auxiliary equipment.

The Helicopter Cargo Letdown Procedures consists of material compiled from the private sector, bureaus,

and agencies within the Department of Interior and USDA Forest Se rvice. This will allow the user to utilize

helicopter cargo letdown to accomplish a wide variety of tasks or projects safely and economically. Cargo

letdown was designed to augment helicopter capabilities; it is not a replacement for long

- line operations

. Exposure and risk assessment must be addressed in the process of deciding which type of helicopter cargo

delivery system to use.

A. Objectives

The intent is to develop standardization in training of individual spotters and pilots in a variety

of helicopte rs for the safe and efficient deployment of cargo.

B. Applications

Cargo letdown operations expand the capability of the helicopter by delivering cargo on

incidents and projects.

**II. QUALIFICATIONS** 

A. Pilot

1. Pilots Requirements

Pilots must meet the followi ng requirements:

a. DOI Department Manual parts 350

- 354 or USDA Forest Service 5700 Manual.

b. Meet experience requirements for precision long

- line activities of the curren t contract

curren t contract and may be required to perform and agency check ride.

ride.

c. Pilots must attend a f amiliarization session covering cargo letdown procedures and

procedures and techniques, crew coordination and emergency procedures.

procedures.

d. Demonstrate ability to operate helicopter during cargo letdown sequence.

sequence.

e. Demonstrate ability to work with spotter.

2. Pilot Familiarization and Qualification

Pilots must attend an annual familiarization session covering cargo deployment

sequences. Formatted: Bullets and Numbering

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### Appendix F

– Cargo Letdown Procedures

62 B. Spotter

1. Spotter Training and Qualification

a. Successfully complete Interagency Helicopter Crewmember Training (S

- 271).

271).

b. Demonstrate ability to rig helicopter and gear for cargo letdown operations.

c. Complete three (3) simulated deployments. Perform all of the duties of the spotter from

spotter from the initial call through return to base.

d. Simulate deployment without procedural error.

e. Under the supervisio n of a qualified check spotter, must spot ten (10) loads from the

loads from the helicopter, five (5) of which are in typical terrain.

f. Show principles of inspection, care, maintenance, and repair of cargo letdown equipment.

equipment.

g. Identify the spotter's duties and responsibil ities.

**NOTE: It should be noted that these are minimum requirements and the** 

**instructor/check spotter may request additional training due to the**

**complexity of the expected operations, or an individual's needs for**

**training in specific areas. If an in**  **dividual cannot meet all of the above**

**minimum requirements, the instructor/check spotter will not approve**

**the spotter for cargo letdown operations.**

2. Spotter Proficiency

Individuals will make at least one cargo letdown every 90 days or less.

3. Annual Sp otter Re

- qualification

a. Must attend and successfully complete annual cargo letdown training.

training.

b. Simulate a deployment without error.

c. Complete deployment of three loads of cargo without procedural error.

error.

d. Demonstrate knowledge of standard procedures of cargo letdown.

3. Check Spotter Requirements and Qualification

a. Must have been a qualified spotter for two (2) years.

b. Must have assisted in training of at least two (2) spotters. Formatted: Bullets and Numbering

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### Appendix F

– Cargo Letdown Procedures

63 **NOTE: New programs will be approved DOI**  **NBC AM and state or regional** 

**aviatio n manager for DOI, or regional aviation officer for Forest** 

**Service. Instructors and local managers will designate a minimum of**

**one check spotter per base.**

4. Annual Check Spotter Proficiency

a. Demonstrate a knowledge of standard procedures of cargo

l et down

.

b. Simulate a deployment without procedural error.

c. Deploy three (3) loads of cargo in a typical terrain without procedural error.

error.

**NOTE: If currency is lost during the annual qualification period, the check** 

**spotter must complete the proficiency requ irements to remain** 

**current.**

**III**

**. SPOTTER**  **SAFETY CHECKS**

A. Standard Procedures. All training and actual deployment missions will use the following steps and

procedures. The intent is to standardize and maintain continuity between units.

1. Pre

- Deployment Bri efing. Prior to any cargo letdown operation, the spotter will brief all personnel

personnel involved.

a. Brief pilot with pertinent information affecting deployment mission and environmental

environmental concerns (weather, wind, terrain, landing areas, density altitude, etc.)

altitude, etc.)

b. Pi lot/spotter will brief on emergency procedures and verbal communications during

communications during deployment sequence.

c. Clear and concise communication between the pilot and the spotter will take place during the

take place during the entire cargo letdown process. Communication must be complete ly

be complete ly understood by both the pilot and spotter.

2. Pre

- flight Inspection. Each spotter will conduct an equipment check prior to boarding the

helicopter.

a. Personal Equipment

(1) Aviator’s protective helmet is properly fitted and secured. Avionics are operational and

and cord is long enough to provide sufficient length to accommodate spotter’s

spotter’s movement in the cabin without interfering with cargo letdown line.

letdown line.

(2) Collar turned up, fire shirt buttoned to top or nomex flight suit zipped up completely.

completely. Formatted: Bullets and Numbering

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### Appendix F

– Cargo Letdown Procedures

64 (3) Sleeves down and over gloves.

(4) Nomex/leather gloves on.

(5) Harness correctly fitted and loose straps secured with no twists.

(6) Buckles secure and attached correctly.

(7) Knife easily accessible.

(8) Leather boots. (Nomex will extend below boot tops)

**NOTE: Take special care in chec**  **king correct buckle attachments and looking for**

**loose ends of straps that could become entangled in the line and/or descent**

**device.**

**V EMERGENCY PROCEDURES** 

**“** Emergency procedures **”** are defined as the standard established procedures used to respond to a

situation, serious in nature, developing suddenly or unexpectedly, and demanding immediate action.

A. Helicopter Emergency

1. In

- Hover/Control and Power Maintained or Engine Failure, Power Loss

A problem may be indicated by a caution or chip detector light coming on, gradual oil pressure

loss, hydraulic boost pump failure, etc. If the pilot determines the emergency is immediate and

the deployment sequence must be dev iated from, the following procedures will be initiated:

a. Pilot will declare the emergency to the spotter.

b. Spotter will cut line.

c. Spotter will fasten seat belt.

d. Spotter will report both actions both to pilot.

B. Deployment Problems **HELPFUL HINTS**

 Maintain a taught taut letdown line at all times. DO NOT allow unarrested descent.

 Attempt to minimize cont act with fuselage, step, skid, or basket when deploying cargo.

  A 5 foot section on each end of the letdown line and a 10 foot section in the center of the line should

be clearly marked. Use center

- of

- line indicators to help determine whether splitting the load is an

option.

  The shadow from the load may be useful in determining height above ground.

 Keep helicopter control input to a minimum after descent begins to minimize load oscillations.

 Secure load behind rocks, logs, or bushes whenever possible on steep terrain to avoid rolling.

  If tight spin develops during l etdown, accelerate letdown process as much as possible.

 All cargo containers must be manufactured with high strength, abrasion resistant materials.

 Aircraft utilizing external cargo operations should minimize flight time with external cargo and

maintain an air speed that allows for the external load to remain stable.

 Steel figure 8’s will retain more heat than aluminum figure 8’s. Excessive heat build up on the figure 8

could cause melting of letdown line during cargo deployment. Formatted: Bullets and Numbering

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### Appendix F

– Cargo Letdown Procedures

65 If the spotter is confronte d with a problem during the descent (e.g., pitch on the line, a knot, line

entangled in trees, etc.).

1. The spotter will declare the emergency and state the problem.

2. The spotter and pilot will determine necessary action (i.e., cut line, lock off and fly aw ay, lower load

aw ay, lower load to ground by decreasing altitude, etc.).

C. Lock Off and Fly Away Procedures

When the spotter and pilot jointly determine and agree that there is a need to lock off and fly away

(like a sling load), the following procedures will be followed:

1. Pilot will maintain hover.

2. Spotter will place brake hand on the running end of line, approximately one foot away from descent

foot away from descent device.

3. Spotter will loop running end of line up and over descent device ears twice, locking between loaded

between loaded line and descent de vice, locking off is accomplished. (Lock

- Off Procedure.)

Procedure.)

4. Spotter will notify pilot that load has been locked off and direct pilot to fly away.

away.

**NOTE: Spotter will maintain grip on line with brake hand and have knife ready during fly** 

**away.**

5. Pilot wil l fly load, as a sling load, to nearest suitable landing area, lower to ground and depart.

ground and depart.

MODEL SPECIFIC PROCEDURES

AEROSPATIALE SA 315B (Lama)

**Cargo Deployment Procedures**

Floor Internal Cargo

1. Pre Deployment Formatted: Bullets and Numbering

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### Appendix F

– Cargo Letdown Procedures

66 A. The pilot and spotter configure a ircraft for mission. Spotter puts on harness, knife readily

readily accessible.

B. Visually inspect anchor.

C. Secure cargo in helicopter.

D. Secure harness tether to an approved attachment point. Assure carabiners, figure 8 and letdown

figure 8 and letdown lines are on board. Enter air craft and buckle seat belt.

2. Approach to Drop Site:

A. Recon area for hazards and confirm deployment site with pilot.

B. Identify and check alternate site.

C. Rig letdown line through figure 8, attach figure 8 to positive locking steel carabiner and to floor

carabiner and to floor anchor with carabiner. Then attach end of letdown line to positive

positive locking steel carabiner on cargo and lock carabiner. Take up any additional slack.

additional slack. Lock letdown line on figure 8. Inform pilot cargo is rigged.

rigged.

D. Spotter may elect to remain seat belted , unfasten seatbelt, or move to rearward facing spotters’

spotters’ seat.

E. Inform ground personnel to stay clear of cargo during deployment.

F. Inform flight following that the radio will be off frequency (if not already done).

G. Activate hot mike. From this point on all spotter actions are verbalized to pilot.

3. Hover Position

Communicate with pilot to position helicopter over deployment spot. Terminology should use pilot's

perspective (your side, my side, forward, back and up or down relative to altitude above the ground).

Spotter Checks power with pilot. Suggested verbiage to use when in hover over spot:

SPOTTER: "How's Power?"

PILOT: “Power is good”

SPOTTER: "Ready To Deploy"

PILOT: "Go Ahead"

**CAUTION: Spotter shall no**  **t move cargo outside the aircraft until the pilot announces power is good.**

4. Cargo Deployment

A. Ease cargo out of door, lowering between fuselage and skid.

B. Unlock letdown line from figure 8 and lower cargo with positive control of letdown line. Via ho t

letdown line. Via ho t mike, keep pilot informed of actions and progress of cargo descent: Formatted: Bullets and Numbering

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### Appendix F

– Cargo Letdown Procedures

67 cargo descent:

 "Cargo out the door";

 "Cargo halfway down";

 "Cargo on ground, etc. "

C. When cargo is on ground, hold slack in line to prevent billowing (if deploying split load, attach

split load, attach cargo to letdown line and repeat steps a

. and b

. ), unhook figure 8, remove

figure 8, remove figure 8 from letdown line, and secure figure 8 in aircraft.

D. Wrap excess letdown line around rope bag and drop bag to the ground or cut letdown line and

line and drop line to the ground.

E. Inform pilot if more cargo is to be lowered with additional letdown line. Pilot will determine

will determine whether to hover or orbit area until cargo is ready for subsequent

deployment. When cargo deployment is complete and rigging is clear of aircraft, inform

aircraft, inform pilot “We’re clear to fly away”. Formatted: Bullets and Numbering

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### Appendix G F

– Short

- haul Risk Analysis (Examples) Example A

68 **A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **G F**  **: S**  **H O**  **R T** 

**- H**  **A U**  **L R**  **I S**  **K A**  **N A**  **L Y**  **S I**  **S**

**RECONNAISANCE FLIGHT CHECKLIST**

**Mission Information**

CASE NUMBER

INCIDENT NAME

LOCATION

ELEVATION

DATE/TIME of OCCURRENCE

DATE/TIME REPORTED

H ELICOPTER TYPE

PILOT

SPOTTER

**Patient Medical Status (if known)**

TRAUMA SCORE (12 or less is critical)

EST. TIME TO DO CONVENTIONAL RESCUE

EST. TIME TO DO WITH SHORT

- HAUL

**Weather**

OUTSIDE AIR TEMPERAT URE (F/C)

RELATIVE WIND DIRECTION DEGREES

TRUE WIND DIRECTION DEGREES

WIND SPEED (mph/knots)

GUST SPREAD (mph/knots)

PRESSURE ALTITUDE FEET

TURBULENCE (circle one) NONE

– LIGHT

- MODERATE

- SEVERE

**Pi ckup/drop** 

**- off Site Characteristics** 

TECHNICAL TERRAIN

VEGETATION

SLOPE (% slope)

SNOW/ICE (describe)

GROUND TRAVEL HAZARDS

DISTANCE TO SAFE LANDING AREA

**Hover/Power Check**

TORQUE

PITCH (lama) OR N1

TOT

FUEL ON BOARD (gallons/lbs)

ROTOR CLEARANCES

**Incident Conditions**

LOAD CALCULATION DONE (circle one) GO NO

- GO

DISTANCE TO SAFE LANDING AREA

INCIDENT COMMANDER APPROVAL YES NO

**Proc edure Used (circle one)**  Conventional Rescue/Short

- haul

### Appendix G F

– Short

- haul Risk Analysis (Examples) Example B

69 INCIDENT NAME CASE INCIDENT# .

LOCATION

.

INCIDENT COMMANDER

. DATE

.

**LOAD CALCULATION**

ELEVATION OF STAGING SITE FEET

ELEVATION OF ACCIDENT SITE FEET

PILOT NAME

. PATIENT WEIGH T (if known) LBS

FUEL ON BOARD GALLONS

TEMPERATURE (if known or estimate:

- 2 ° C/1000 feet) ° C ° F

LOAD CALCULATION COMPLETED YE S NO

**PATIENT MEDICAL CONSIDERATIONS**

TIME OF ACCIDENT

. TIME REPORTED

. SUMMARY OF SUSPECTED PATIENT INJURIES

.

. MECHANISM OF INJURY

.

MEDICAL CONTROL CONCURS WITH SHORT

- HAUL YES NO NOT APPLICABLE

**RESCUE CONSIDERATIONS**

SHORT

- HAUL SITE DESCRIPTION (Technical terrain; Non

- technical terrain; Swiftwater; etc.)

.

**ALTERNATIVES:**

NUMBER OF PEOPLE REQUIRED FOR GROUND

- BASED RESCUE

. ESTIMATED TIME FOR GROUND

- BASED RESCUE HOURS

RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH GROUND

- BASED RESCUE HAVE BEEN DISCUSSED YES NO

MOVE PATIENT TO ALTERNATE LOCATION (Helispot) YES NO

**ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDER ATIONS** 

SUNRISE AM SUNSET PM

**As reported from the short**

**- haul site, if possible:** 

WIND SPEED (Not to exceed 35mph) mph

GUST SPREAD (Not to exceed 17mph) mph

VISIBILITY (1/2 mile minimum) mile(s)

**ALTERNATIVES:**

DELAY OPERATION FOR IMPROVED CONDITIONS YES NO

PREDICTED WEATHER

.

**AIRCRAFT CONSIDERATIONS (Reconnaissance check flight information relayed to IC)**

OUTSIDE AIR TEMPERATURE (OAT) ° F ° C

PRESS URE ALTITUDE FEET TORQUE %

ADEQUATE ROTOR CLEARANCE (1.5 X Rotor disc diameter) YES NO

DECISION TO SHORT

- HAUL MADE BY FLIGHT CREW YES NO

INCIDENT COMMANDER CONCURS YES N O

### Ap pendix G F

– Short

- haul Risk Analysis (Examples) Example C

70 **Short**

**- haul Risk Analysis** 

Wind Speed / Direction ________ Knots________ **Go Caution**  **No Go**

0 to 24 Knots 0

24 to 30 Knots 0

30 + Knots 0

Wind Gust Spread _______ Knots

0 to 12 Knots 0

12 to 15 Knots 0

15 + Knots 0

Rotor Pitch ___

0 to .85 0

.85 to .90 0

.90 + 0

Rotor Clearance ___________ Feet

36 + feet 0

18 to 36 feet 0

0 to 18 feet 0

Visibility __________ Miles

1⁄2 mile plus 0

0 to 1⁄2 miles 0

Turbulence

None 0

light to moderate 0

seve re 0

Helicopter Rescue time limits (SUNSET)

3 to 14 hours 0

1 to 3 hours 0

0 to 1 hour 0

Helicopter trained personnel

well trained 0

some helicopter training 0

never around helicopters 0

Pilot Briefed & Trained in mission type

Knows Are a , mission & trained well 0

Knows mission, some training, was told about hazards 0

Told mission & limited training 0+

Ground Base Rescue

12 + hours 0

3 to 12 hours 0

1 to 3 hours 0+

Patient

Critical 0

Delayed 0

Deceased 0+

Miss ion Planning

Management Approved 0

Load Calculation done 0

Within allowable payload 0

Have enough fuel for the mission 0

Fuel truck is pre

- positioned 0

Communications are acceptable 0

There are many subjective elements in this analysis. It is meant to be a guide through a thought process. Sound

judgment is the key.

0+; proceed with **extreme caution** , the risk/benefit ratio is especially questionable

### Appendix G F

– Short

- haul Risk Analysis (Examples) Example D

71 

### SHORT HAUL RISK MANAGEMENT CHECKLIST

**1. SITUATIONAL AWARENESS** 

 Gather and verify available information

 Develop an accurate “mental image” of the mission.

**2. HAZARD ASSESSMENT**

**METHOD (Techniques & Methods How Mission Will Be Conducted)**

 In the best interest of rescuer(s) and subject safety.

 A lternate techniques adequately evaluated (time required & hazards )

 Adequate communications in place.

 Check for omissions or deficiencies

 Backup plan prepared.

**MAN (Generic Reference to Incident Personnel)**

 Personnel trained and qualified for the mission.

 Personnel have provided for personal preparedness.

 Flight crew duty limits

 Mental & physical condition of rescuers

**MISSION (The Incident Assignment)**

 Operational tempo is appropriate

 Urgency is not driving the mission.

**MEDIUM (Environmental Forces)** 

 Airspa ce conflicts/hazards

 Environmental hazards identified and considered in mission planning including;

• Altitude, rotor clearance, slope, ice, snow, heat, loose rock, exposure or over

- water.

 Current and predicted weather identified.

 Sufficient daylight to co mplete the mission.

 Operating within performance capabilities of man and machine.

**MANAGEMENT (Controls, Procedures, Oversight & Supervision)**

 ICS established and communicated.

 Compliance with policies and SOP’s.

 Safety openly promoted.

 After

- action review planned.

**3. HAZARD CONTROL**

 Identify risks and implement controls to them.

**4. DECISION POINT**

 Form a GO/NO

- GO decision based upon hazard mitigation.

**TIME MANAGEMENT**

**1. Do I have to act immediately?** 

**2. How much time do I have?** 

**3. What can I do in that time?** 

**4. Can I a**  **lter the time available?**

**5. Should I?** 

**6. Tempo control?** 

**1. EVALUATE** 

 Continually update your “mental image” of the mission.

 Continually measure how well the plan is working

.  Adjust the response as necessary.

Grand Canyon NP SAR 02

- 03 Formatted: Left

### Appendix H G

– Training Log

72 GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK

SEA RCH AND RESCUE TRAINING LOG



### DATE:

**LOCATION:**

**HOURS:**

**DESCRIPTION:**

**INDIVIDUALS INVOLVED (In Bold):**

**JENNY LAKE SUBDISTRICT:**

OTHERS:

SUMMITTED BY: APPROVED BY:

Signature_____________________________ Signature_________________________________

Date___________________________________ Date_______________________________________

### Appendix I H

– Annual Training Report

73 **A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **I H**  **: A**  **N N**  **U A**  **L T**  **R A**  **I N**  **I N**  **G R**  **E P**  **O R**  **T**



### ANNUAL SHORT

**- HAUL REPORT** 

This report wil l be submitted annually to the Interagency Short

- haul Working Group Chairperson.

**Y ear:** 

**Unit Name:**

**Unit Address:**

**Point of Contact:**

TOTAL NUMBER OF SHORT

- HAULS PERFORMED

TOTAL NUMBER OF TRAINING SHORT

- HAULS

TOTAL NUMBER OF RESCUE SHORT

- HA ULS

TOTAL NUMBER OF RESCUE PERFORMED

TOTAL NUMBER OF LIVES SAVED USING SHORT

- HAUL

### Appendix J I

– Equipment, Supplies, References

74 **A P**  **P E**  **N D**  **I X**  **J I**  **: E**  **Q U**  **I P**  **M E**  **N T** 

**, S**  **U P**  **P L**  **I E**  **S**

**, R**  **E F**  **E R**  **E N**  **C E**  **S**

**HELICOPTER RESCUE SOURCE LIST**

**Aeronautical Accessories, Inc.**

P.O. Box 3689, Bristol, TN 37625, USA

423.538.5151 or 800. 251.7094

www.aero

- access.com Helicopter Rappel

Bracket

**Billy Pugh Company**

1415 North Water, P.O. Box 802,

Corpus Christi, TX 78401

361.884.9351

www.billypugh.com Helicopter Yoke Band & Rescue

Nets

**CMC Rescue**

P. O. Drawer 6870, Santa Barbara, CA 93160

- 6870

800.235.5741 or 805.562.9120

www.cmcrescue.com Manufacturer an d Rescue Equipment

Distributor

**David Clark Company**

Post Office Box 15054, Worcester, MA 01615

- 0054

508.751.5800

www.davidclark.com Communication

headsets

**Department Of Inter ior** 

**- Aviation Management** 

300 E. Mallard Dr., Ste.200, Boise, ID 83706

208

- 433

- 5076

www.nbc.gov /amd Federal

Agency

**Flight Suits, Ltd.**

1675 Pioneer Way, El Cajo n, CA 92020

800.748.6693 or 619.440.2700

www.flightsuits.com Nomex Flight Suits, Flight Helmets

**Gentex Corporation**

P.O. Box 315, Carbondale, PA 18407

570.282.3550

www.gentexcorp.com Flight

Helmets

### Appendix J I

– Equipment, Supplies, References

75 **Heli**

**- Dyne Systems, Inc.** 

9000 Trinity Blvd., Hurst, TX 76053

817.282.9804

www.heli

- dyne.com Helicopter

accessories

**Lifesaving Systems Corporation**

220 Elsberry Road, Apollo Beach, FL 33572

- 2289

813.645.2748

www.lifesavingsystems.com Rescue straps, helicopter resc ue equipment

supplier

**Mammut (Technical Rescue Products Division),**

Mammut tec AG

Industriestr. Birren, CH 5703 Seon

Tel. +41 / (0) 62 769 82 32 Fax +41 / (0) 62 769 82 11

www.mammut.ch Rope manufacture r, Helicopter Rescue

Accessories

**Massif Mountain Gear Company**

1000 SE M Street, Grants Pass, OR 97526

541.201.0023

www.massif.com Flamestop  Nomex Fleece

Outerwear

**National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC)**

3833 S. Development Avenue, Boise, Idaho 83705

- 5354

208.334.2662 or 208.387.5512

www.nifc.gov Nomex Flight suits, Flight

Helmets

**Onboard Systems International**

11212 NW St. Helens Road, Portland, OR 97231

503.286.4956 or 800.275.0883

www.onboardsystems.com Class “D” Certified Cargo

Hooks

**Oregon Aero**

34020 Skyway Dr.

Scappoose OR. 97056

(503) 543

- 7399

www.oregonaero.com Headset Accessories

**OTTO Communications**

2 E. Main Street, Carpentersville IL 60110

847.428.7171

### Appendix J I

– Equipment, Supplies, References

76 www. ottoeng.com Radio Headsets, Throat/Skull Microphones

**Para**

**- Gear Equipment Company** 

3839 West Oakton Street, Skokie, IL 60076

847.679.5905

www.paragear.com Three

- Ring Release and Custom

- sewn R igging Products

**Pigeon Mountain Industries, Inc. (PMI)**

P.O. Box 803, Lafayette GA 30728 USA

706.764.1437

www.pmirope.com Rope manufacturer, rescue equipment,

hardware

**Petzl America**

Freeport Center Building M

- 7, PO Box 160447, Clearfield, UT 84016

801.327.3805

www.petzl.com Rescue equipment, harnesses, sewn webbing

products

**Rainy Day Equipment**

P.O. Box 818, Nakusp, British Columbia, Canada VOG 1RO

250.265.4740 or 265.4766

email: je rrymav@columbiacable.net

Contact: Mavis Munn “Bauman Bag” (Heli

- rescue Bag) Manufacturer, Harness, Screamer Suit

**Res**

**- Q** 

**- Mfg.** 

2144 S. Memorial Dr., Tulsa, OK 74129

918.664.5997 Helo Attachment Belt, Res

- Q

Ring

**Rescue Systems, Inc . (RSI)** 

**PO Box 596**

**Collinsville, Virginia, 24078**

**276**

**- 629** 

**- 2900** 

www.rescuesystems.com Rescue equipment, hardware, sewn webbing

products

**SEI Industries International**

7400 Wilson Avenue, Delta, British Columb ia, Canada V4G 1E5

604.946.3131

www.sei

- ind.com P1R Short Haul Rescue System (Transport Canada Approved )

**SkyHook Rescue Systems Inc.**

### Appendix J I

– Equipment, Supplies, References

77 Terry Asherin, President

7074 Estepa Drive, Tujunga, CA 91042

818.293.0320

www.skyhookrescue.com Helicopter Extraction Systems

**Switlik Parachute Company**

1325 East State Street, Trenton, NJ 08609

609.587.3300

www.switlik.com Aviati on Crew Flotation Vests, Anti

- Exposure

Suits

**Television Equipment, Inc.**

P.O. Box 404, 2022 Route 22, Brewster, NY 10509

310.457.7401

www.swatheadsets.com Waterproof Communication Headsets

**The Rescue Sour ce/RESCUE3** 

9075 Elk Grove Boulevard, #200, P.O. Box 519, Elk Grove, California 95759

800.45.RESCU or 916

- 685

- 3066

www.rescue3.com Swiftwater Rescue Supplies, Harnesses, Rescue Equipment

Supplier

**Traverse Rescue** 

103 2689 Kyle Road, Kelowna, BC V1Z2M9, Canada

250.769.0723 or 888.599.3355

www.traverserescue.com Harnesses, adjustable anchor

straps

**Tyromont**

Köllensperger Eisenwaren Ges.m.b.H.

Bert Kölle nsperger Str.6, A

- 6065 THAUR bei Innsbruck

Tel: 05223

- 505

- 0 Fax: 05223

- 505

- 14

www.worldport.at/300/324/index.html Heli

- rescue Bag

Manufacturer

**United States Forgecraf t** 

P.O. Box 387, Fort Smith, AR 72902

501.782.8651

www.forgecraft.com Rigging hardware

manufacturer

**Vincent Communications, Inc**

5773 E. Shields Ave.

Fresno, CA 93727

- 7821

(559) 292

- 7010

Fax: (559 ) 292

- 7132 Radio/Helmet

Interfaces

### Appendix J I

– Equipment, Supplies, References

78 **Yates Gear Inc.**

2608 Hartnell Ave. #6, Redding, CA 96002

530.222.4606 or 800.YATES.16

www.yatesgear.com Harnesses, Daisy

Chains

**Dye penetrant servi ces** 

Golden State Magnetic & Penetrant Lab, Inc.

9301 Laurel Canyon Blvd.

Arleta, CA 91331

Phone: 818

- 767

- 5767

Fax: 818

- 767

- 5885

www.gsmp.com Non

- Destructive Testing

Integrated Quality Services

1236 W. Brooks St., Suite A

Ontario, CA 91762

Phone: 909

- 988

- 4054

Fax: 909

- 988

- 2356

www.iqs

- nde.com Non

- Destructive Testing

R. E. Darling Co., Inc.

3749 N. Romero Rd.

Tuscon, AZ 85705

Phone: 520

- 887

- 2400

Fax: 520

- 887

- 4551

www.redarling.thomasregister.com Non

- Destructive Testing

Agra Earth & Environmental, Inc.

3504 Industrial Ave., Suite 5

Fairbanks, AK 99701

Phone: 907

- 479

- 7586

www.amec.com Non

- Destructive Testing

Dynamic Resonance Systems, Inc

225 Lane 13

Powell, WY 82435

Phone: 307

- 548

- 9489

Fax: 307

- 548

- 9473

www.ndtest.com Non

- Destructive Testing

### Appendix J I

– Equipment, Supplies, References

79 Revised 03/18 /07

### Helicopter Short

- Haul Glossary

80 

### H **E L**  **I C**  **O P**  **T E**  **R S**  **H O**  **R T** 

**- H**  **A U**  **L G**  **L O**  **S S**  **A R**  **Y**

**Attendant:** Individual rescuer attached adjacent to litter or victim during a short

- haul rescue. T ypically a

trained EMS provider who needs to monitor the airway o f a patient packaged in a litter

.

**Auto**

**- Locking Carabiner:**  Carabiner w ith spring

- loaded locking gate mechanism. Typically

the sleeve on the carabiner gate must be rotated before the carabiner can be opened. Once the

gate is released to close, the sleeve rotates automatically to positively lock the carabiner.

Auto

- locking carabiners are preferred for short

- haul applications since they are not affected

by aircraft vibration, which may cause traditional screw

- locking carabiners to unlock.

Commercial manufacturers include Petzl, DMM (illustration) , ISC and Kong.

**Bauman Ba g**  ( aka Heli

- rescue Bag, Jenny Bag) **:** A soft hammock style stretcher constructed of cordura material

suspended from a single centered connection point for short

- haul rescue. Generically

these are referred to as heli

- rescue bags. One of the major design fea tures of the

Bauman Bag is how aerodynamically stable it is during helicopter rescue evolutions.

Named for Tom Bauman of Rainy Day Equipment, Inc. The Bauman Bag Stretcher

(illustration) evolved from the original “Horizontal Lifesaving Net” created by Fr itz

Buhler, Swiss Air Rescue in 1966, which was constructed of a lightweight fishnet

material that was small enough to fit in a rescuer’s pocket. Commercial heli

- rescue bag

manufactures include Rainy Day Equipment (Canada) and Tyromont (Austria).

**Capewe ll Release:**  A double action release mechanism designed to reliably function while

subjected to a load. The Capewell lanyard

- type parachute canopy release (illustration) is a hand

activated mechanical device for detaching the parachute harness from the can opy. This design was

first patented in 1947. The manufacturer subjects each release to a 5,000 pound (2268 kg) pull test.

**Climbing Helmet :**  Protective headwear used in rock climbing and technical rescue. These helmets

will have an internal suspension system to protect the head from a blow and a multi

- point chin

restraint system to prevent the helmet from being knocked off the user’s head. Co mmercially

produced helmets typically meet the s tandards of a certifying body such as ANSI, UIAA or CE norm.

**C onnector Strap**  ( aka Daisy Chain, Se wn Anchor Strap) **:** A commercially sewn webbing or cordage tether

which the short

- haul rescuer uses to connect their harness to the short

- haul line.

**Density Altitude :**  Pressure altitude corrected for the outside air tem perature and humidity. Refers to a

theoretical air density which exists under standard conditions of a given latitude.

**Evacuation Harness :**  A simple

, quick

- donning universal harne ss, which is used for rescue of a stranded

subject. These harnesses includ e triangular style designs as well as military hoisting vests (screamer suit).

Several com mercial manufacturers include Petzl, Mammut, Kong and Spinks Industries.

**Extraction :**  The phase of a short

- haul evolution involving transport of personnel from a sh ort

- haul site to a

staging helispot.

**Harness :**  A commercially sewn climbing or rescue harness. Design elements typically include contrasting

stitching in order to inspect for wear and double pass

- through buckles to provide for security. Harness

features may include extra padding, gear loops or hard connection points. Dependent upon agency

### Helicopter Short

- Haul Glossary

81 preference and application

, short

- haul rescuers may either wear an independent seat harness, a seat and

chest harness combination or a full body harness. Commercially manufactured harnesses typically are

manufactured to meet ANSI, NFPA or CE Norm standards.

**Warning: Improvised or hand tied harnesses should be avoi**  **ded for short haul applications**

**due to the potential for error.**

**Hazard :**  Any real or potential conditi on that can cause mission degradation, injury, illness, death to

personnel or damage to or loss of equipment or property.

**Helispot:** A safe takeoff and l anding area meeting obstruction free clearance standards , for example a Type

III/Light helicopter need s a 15’ X 15’ touchdown pad with a 75’ safety circle. For use during rescue

operations a helispot may be temporary and not have other site improvements.

**Hook Knife :**  A J

- shaped bladed knife designed to quickly cut through cordage or webbing. Used by a s hort

haul er for emergency cut away from the short

- haul line or connector straps.

**Human External Cargo (HEC)** : Classification given by the FAA to the suspension of human loads beneath a

rotorcraft.

**In**

**- Flight Emergency:**  A condition threatening the con tinued safe flight of the helicopter. This includes

critical conditions such as loss of engine power, tail rotor failure or other major mechanical malfunction.

Such situations will require an immediate autorotation to the ground. A human load suspended for a short

haul evolution at that time of an emergency autorotation may sustain bodily injury upon contact with the

ground. (See also Precautionary Landing)

**Insertion :**  The phase of a short

- haul evolution involving the transport of personnel from a stagi ng helispot

into a short

- haul site.

**Knot:** Aeronautical measurement of airspeed corresponding to 1.15 statue miles per hour.

**Munter Hitch** ( aka Italian Hitch) **:** A bi

- directional friction hitch that can be used for belaying a

load. The Munter Hitch is rigged around a carabiner, which provides the surface for generating

friction. During a short

- haul evolution inv olving the deployment of a tail rope, t he Munter Hitch

can be used as a method for belaying a stretcher.

**Parachute Landing Fall (PLF) :**  A para chutist technique for taking a hard landing without

sustaining critical injuries. The landing technique involves rolling to one side upon contact with the ground

in order to distribute impact to the body and lessen the likelihood of spinal injury or leg f racture.

**Personal Flotation Device (PFD) :**  A wearable vest

- style device which provides buoyancy to the user in

water. A swiftwater rescue PFD is typically a US Coast Guard approved Type III/IV.

**Power Assurance Check :**  The pilot will bring the helicopt er to a stable hover and demonstrate a positive

rate of climb prior to actual short

- haul insertion. This check will be accomplished at actual altitude and

temperature for initial insertion.

**Precautionary Landing :**  Deviation from the planned flight to la nd due to a perceived threat or emergency

that might a ffect airworthiness of the aircraft. This includes such circumstances as isolated weather

conditions, communication equipment failure, chip/warning light activation or other minor mechanical

problems.

### Helicopter Short

- Haul Glossary

82 **Radio Interface Cable** ( aka a patch cord) **:** Connection between a handheld radio and a flight helmet or

headset, which is typically utilized for communication in noisy environments.

**Reconnaissance Flight :**  The initial flight conducted with the pilot and s potter prior to an insertion or

extraction. This flight permits the flight crew to focus on evaluating all hazards and conditions at a short

- haul

site without a human load suspended beneath the aircraft.

**Short**

**- Haul**  ( aka HSRS

- Helicopter Sling Rescue S ystem [Parks Canada], Fixed

- Line Flyaway, Fixed Rope

Technique, Helicopter Rescue Strop [New Zealand National Parks]) **:** Technique of transporting personnel

beneath a helicopter while suspended on a fixed rope. This technique permits insertion and extracti on of

personnel from a site where a helicopter could not typical ly land.

A short

- haul system is rigged to the aircraft in a manner to permit emergency

release of the line. Short

- haul was initially introduced at the First International

Helicopter Sympo sium held at the Eiger Glacier in September 1966. The “k notted

rope technique" was introduced by REGA P resident Fritz Buhler to the mountain

rescue community. Buhler's prototype of modern short

- haul was preceded by some early

failures with other method s that included use of a rope ladder and lowering a rescuer on the

end of a rope from a helicopter.

The first workable design involved an 8 meter rope attached to the helicopter, with knots at

40 centimeter intervals, and a poma ski

- lift style disc seat attached at the end of the line. A

rescuer would actually climb down the line from the aircraft and sit on the disc while hanging

on to the line.

Meanwhile the U.S. military developed several static helicopter extraction or "exfiltration"

technique s for use in combat applications

, particularly in Vietnam. These included the

Hanson Harness, McGuire Rig, JOES (Jungle Operations Extraction System), SPIE (Special

Patrol Insertion/Extraction) Rig and the STABO Rig. The STABO Rig was developed by U.S.

A rmy Special Forces circa 1966.

**Short**

**- Haul Hand Signals:**  Set of one

- handed signals used by both the spotter and short haul rescuer to

communicate effectively between aircraft and the end of the short

- haul line during critical phases of insertion

and ex traction.

**Short**

**- Haul Rescuer**  **:** Personnel trained and qualified in short

- haul procedures. During a short

- haul

evolution they are suspended at the end of the short

- haul line from their harness es

.

**Short**

**- Haul Site**  **:** The location where personnel will be inse rted to or extracted from during a short

- haul

evolution. The short

- haul site does not meet the requirements for a landing zone , such as a narrow canyon

, cliff face or narrow mountain ridge.

**Spotter :**  Helicopter crew member who assists the pilot during a short

- haul evolution. The spotter aids with

visual reference of the human load, rotor clearances, observing ground activities and hazards, watching for

additional aircraft in the airspace and performing communication duties. The spotter may be positioned in

the aft cabin of the helicopter dependent upon make and model and more than one spotter may be

re quired

, depending upon the circumstance s

.

### Helicopter Short

- Haul Glossary

83 **Staging Helispot :**  A landing zone used by the sh ort

- haul crew to rig for a short

- haul mission. The

reconnaiss ance flight normally commences from this site and is typically where the flight crew and rescuers

will conduct a mission briefing. This landing zone meets the site requirements for a helispot based upon the

mod el of helicopter involved. For example, a L ight/Type III helicopter needs a 15’ X 15’ landi ng pad with a

75’ safety circle

.

**Stokes Litter :**  A rigid basket

- style stretcher. Evolved from an original military design (NSN 6530

- 00

- 042

- 8131). Use of a Stokes Litter or similar solid plastic litter is not recommended for short

- haul evolutions due

to the violent spinning that can occur in flight.

**Warning: The use of a solid plastic stretcher (e.g. Ferno**

**- Washington Model 71 or 71** 

**- S)** 

**during a short haul evolution could be dangerous due to the violent sp inning that can** 

**result.**

**Tail Rope:** A short belay line utilized when a stretcher is located in an exposed short

- haul site for extraction.

This provides security for the stretcher as it is initially lifted off the ground. One end of the line is anchored

to the ground and then run through a point on the stretcher and back to a friction belay device. As the

stretcher become s airborne the running end of the rope exits through the belay device and detaches from the

stretcher

, leaving the rope on the ground.

**Technical Terrain:** Terrain with a degree of vertical exposure that experienced climbers or rescue

personnel would feel the need for an anchored safety rope or belay in order to safely work.

**Three**

**- Ring Release:**  A mechanism design ed for parach ute canopy release while under load. This

release can be employed in short

- haul anchor systems. This device is constructed of three

consecutively smaller metal rings which are levered over one another with each bearing

sequentially less of the loa d. The release is a pin which holds the smallest of the rings down. The

pin is connected to a release c able that is pulled to release. The improved design and reliability of

the three

- ring release (illustration) has resulted in it being preferred over the Cape well Release for

most short

- haul programs.

**Typical Terrain :**  The anticipated environment in whi ch operations may be conducted such as

confined areas with features that may include steep slope s, cliff faces, tall trees, etc.

**Weight Bag:** Weight suspende d on short

- haul line to prevent it from becoming entangled in the helicopter

rotor system during forward flight when there is no personnel or equipment suspended on the line. This

weight may be positioned a short distance from the distal end of the short

- haul line to prevent it from

encumbering short

- haul personnel. The weight may be comprised of a water

- filled container, padded lead

weight, sand, road cinders, etc.

**Yoke Band :**  A short

- haul anchor system that is constructed of a belt which is secured around the fuselage of

the helicopter through the aft cabin doors. Typically the aircraft doors must be removed or pinned open to

allow installation of this equipment. The yoke band must have a dual

- action release mechanism to permit

emergency release, w hich is typically performed by the spotter.

Revised 02/08

### Helicopter Short

- Haul Glossary

84 **GRTE Short** 

**- Haul Risk Analysis** 

**Incident Name: _____________________________ IC: _____________________**  **Date: ___________**

**2. SITUATIONAL AWARENESS**  **Time: ___________**

 Gather and veri fy available information

 Develop an accurate “mental image” of the mission.

**2. HAZARD ASSESSME NT** 

METHOD **(TECHNIQUES & METHOD S HOW MISSION WILL B**  **E CONDUCTED)**

 In the best interest of rescuer(s) and subject safety.

 Alternate techniques adequately evaluated (time required & hazards )

 Adequate communications in place.

 Check for omissions or deficiencies

 Backup plan prepared.

M AN **(GENERIC REFERENCE T O INCIDENT PERSONNEL**  **AND PATIENT )** 

 Personnel trained and qualified for the mission

.
 Patient’s condition and/or environment warrant short

- haul.

MI SSION **(THE INCIDENT ASSIGN MENT)** 

 Operational tempo is appropriate

 Urgency is not driving the mission.

M EDIUM **(ENVIRONMENTAL FORCE S)** 

 Environmental hazards identified and considered in mission p lanning including: **Alternatives:**

Number of people required for ground

- based r escue :

_______ ___ _ Estimated time: __________ hrs

Risks assoc iated with ground

- based rescue have been d iscussed : Yes No

Move patient t o a lternate location (h elispot) ? Yes No

**Site Hazards:**

__________________________

__________________________

__________________________

________________ __________

### Helicopter Short

- Haul Glossary

85  Sufficient daylight to complete the mission.

 Operating within performance capabilities of man and machine, including:

M ANAGEMENT **(CONTROLS, PROCEDURE S, OVERSIGHT & SUPER**  **VISION)**

 ICS established and communicated.

 Compliance with policies and SOP’s.

 Safety openly promoted.

 After

- action review planned.

**3. HAZARD CONTROL**

 Identify risks and implement controls to them.

**4. DECISION POINT**

 Form a GO/NO

- GO decision based upon hazard mi tigation 

**5. EVALUATE** 

 Continually update your “mental image” of the mission.

 Continually measure how well the plan is working.

 Adjust the response as necessary. **Environmental Considerations :** 

Sunrise

___ am Sunset

___ pm

**As r epo**  **rted from the short**

**- haul site**  **:**

Wind speed (not to e x ceed 35 mph) : mph

Gust spread (not to e xceed 17 mph) : mph

**Aircraft Considerations:**

Outside Air Tem perature (OAT ) :

_ ° F

_ ° C Pressure altitude: _____________ feet

Adequate rotor cl ear ance: Yes No Power check: ____

____________

Load calculation completed: Yes No

**TIME MANAGEMENT**

**1. Do I have to act immediately?** 

**2. How much time do I have?** 

**3. What can I do in that time?** 

**4. Can I alter the time available?** 

**5. Should I?** 

**6. Tempo control?**