Rule 4123:1-3-23 | Helicopters.
(A) Reserved.
(B) Reserved.
(C) Slings and tag lines.
Loads shall be balanced and securely fastened. Tag lines where used shall be of a length that will not permit their being drawn up into the rotors. Pressed sleeve, swedged eyes, or equivalent means shall be used for all freely suspended loads to prevent hand splices from spinning open or cable clamps from loosening.
(D) Cargo hooks.
All electrically operated cargo hooks shall have the electrical activating device so designed and installed as to prevent inadvertent operation. In addition, the cargo hooks shall be equipped with an emergency mechanical control for releasing the load. Hooks shall be tested prior to each day's operation to determine that the release functions properly, both electrically and mechanically.
(E) Personal protective equipment.
Personal protective equipment shall be provided and shall consist of complete eye protection and a hard hat secured by a chinstrap.
(F) Housekeeping.
Good housekeeping shall be maintained in all helicopter loading and unloading areas.
(G) Weight limitation.
The weight of an external load shall not exceed the helicopter manufacturer's rating.
(H) Signal systems.
The employer shall instruct the aircrew and ground personnel on the signal systems to be used and shall review the system with the employees in advance of hoisting the load. This applies to both radio and hand signal systems. Hand signals, where used, shall be as shown in "Illustration 23-1, Helicopter Hand Signals".
(I) Communications.
There shall be constant reliable communication between the pilot and a designated employee of the ground crew who acts as a signalman during the period of loading and unloading. The signalman shall be clearly distinguishable from other ground personnel.
(J) Fires.
Open fires are prohibited in areas where they could be spread by the rotor downwash.
Supplemental Information