USDA F S E

USDA F

OREST

S

ERVICE

E

MERGENCY

M

EDICAL

S

HORT

-H

AUL

O

PERATIONS

P

LAN

Las Conchas Fire 2011

USDA Forest Service Emergency Medical Short-Haul Operations Plan- 04/17115

USDA Forest Service

Emergency Medical

Short-Haul Operations Plan

Signatures and Approval

Prepared:

~ _ d;p

"""---Date:~6

LARRY SUTTON, Assistant Director, Risk Management

Chair of the National Emergency Medical Short-Haul Working Team

Reviewed: Washington Office, Aviation Branch Chiefs Date: April 2015

• Airworthiness

• Aviation Operations

• Pilot Standardization

• Aviation Business Operations

• Aviation Safety Management Systems

Reviewed: Regional Aviation Officers Council- Chair Date: April 2015

Approved:

~

PAULLINSEfor Date:04/21/15

ART HINAMAN, Assistant Director, Aviation

2

FORWARD

This Short-Haul Plan sets forth the objectives, procedures, and standards for the Emergency

Medical Short-Haul program in the USDA Forest Service. The following standards and procedures for an Emergency Medical Short-Haul program will be incorporated into the Short-

Haul Plan.

C ONTENTS

CHAPTER 1: GENERAL INFORMATION................................................................................................................. 6

1.1

Authority & Responsibilities ............................................................................................................................ 6

1.2

Leader’s Intent .................................................................................................................................................. 6

1.3

Objectives ......................................................................................................................................................... 6

1.4

Definition of Short-Haul ................................................................................................................................... 6

1.5

Purpose of Short-Haul ...................................................................................................................................... 6

1.6

Approval ........................................................................................................................................................... 7

1.7

Crew Composition ............................................................................................................................................ 8

CHAPTER 2: SHORT-HAUL QUALIFICATION AND REQUIREMENTS ...................................................... 9

2.1

Pilot Requirements ........................................................................................................................................... 9

2.2

Pilot Short-Haul Evaluation.............................................................................................................................. 9

2.3

Check Spotter ................................................................................................................................................... 9

2.3.1

Duties and Responsibilities .......................................................................................................................... 9

2.3.2

Check Spotter Initial Certification Requirements ........................................................................................ 9

2.3.3

Annual Certification ................................................................................................................................... 10

2.3.4

Proficiency Requirements .......................................................................................................................... 10

2.4

Spotter ............................................................................................................................................................ 10

2.4.1

Spotter Initial Certification Requirements ................................................................................................. 10

2.4.2


2.4.3


2.5

Short-Hauler/ EMT Short-Hauler ................................................................................................................... 10

2.5.1

Initial Certification Requirements .............................................................................................................. 10

2.6

Annual Short-Haul Certification Requirements ............................................................................................. 11

2.6.1

Annual Short-Haul Training for all Positions will Include ........................................................................ 11

2.6.2

Check Spotter and Spotter .......................................................................................................................... 11

2.6.3

Short-Hauler/ EMT Short-Hauler ............................................................................................................... 11

2.6.4


2.6.5


2.7

Short-Haul Certification and Proficiency Chart ............................................................................................. 11

CHAPTER 3: EQUIPMENT ............................................................................................................................... 13

3.1

Personal Protective Clothing .......................................................................................................................... 13

3.2

Short-Haul Line Attachment Point/Anchor .................................................................................................... 13

3.3

Aircraft Maintenance ...................................................................................................................................... 13

3.4

Equipment Maintenance & Inspection ........................................................................................................... 13

3.5

Short-Haul Line .............................................................................................................................................. 14

3.5.1

Short-Haul Line Requirements ................................................................................................................... 14

3.5.2

Short-Haul Line Ballast .............................................................................................................................. 14

3.6

Short-Haul Secondary Release ....................................................................................................................... 14

3.6.1

3.6.1.1 Inspection ....................................................................................................................................... 14

3.7

Patient Extraction Equipment ......................................................................................................................... 14

3.7.1

Inspection ................................................................................................................................................... 15

3.8

Short-Hauler Medical/Personal Gear Bag(s) .................................................................................................. 16

3.8.1

Inspection: .................................................................................................................................................. 16

3.9

Carabineers ..................................................................................................................................................... 16

3.10

Spotter/Short-Hauler Harness ......................................................................................................................... 17

3.10.1

Inspection ............................................................................................................................................... 17

3.11

Knife ............................................................................................................................................................... 18

3.12

Short-Hauler Tether ........................................................................................................................................ 18

3.13

Spotter Tether Attachment.............................................................................................................................. 19

3.13.1

Inspection ............................................................................................................................................... 19

3.14

Equipment Changes ........................................................................................................................................ 19

CHAPTER 4: OPERATIONS .............................................................................................................................. 20

4.1

Flight Restrictions .......................................................................................................................................... 20

4.2

Reconnaissance Flight .................................................................................................................................... 20

4.3

Mission Briefing ............................................................................................................................................. 20

4.4

Helicopter Equipment Check .......................................................................................................................... 21

4.5

Short-Hauler Buddy Check ............................................................................................................................ 21

4.6

Spotter Check ................................................................................................................................................. 22

4.7

Helicopter Short-Haul Insertion/Extraction Procedures ................................................................................. 22

4.7.1

Operational Phase ...................................................................................................................................... 22

4.7.2

Short-Haul Team Duties (Extraction) ........................................................................................................ 22

4.7.3

Inflight Considerations ............................................................................................................................... 23

4.7.4

Short-Haul Team Duties (Insertion) ........................................................................................................... 23

4.9

Hand Signals ................................................................................................................................................... 25

CHAPTER 5: IN-FLIGHT EMERGENCIES ...................................................................................................... 27

5.1

Emergency Communications and Categories ................................................................................................. 27

5.2

Immediate Response Emergencies (Land as Soon as Possible) ..................................................................... 27

5.3

Delayed Response Emergencies (Land as Soon as Practicable) ..................................................................... 28

5.3.1

Examples of Possible Problems ................................................................................................................. 28

5.4

Pilot and Spotter Actions – Short-Haul Operations ........................................................................................ 28

5.4.1

Short-Haul Immediate Response Actions .................................................................................................. 28

5.4.2

Short-Haul Delayed Response Actions ...................................................................................................... 29

5.4.3

Short-Haul Incident (Reporting & Investigation): ..................................................................................... 31

5.4.4

Short-Haul Equipment Failure (Reporting & Investigations): ................................................................... 31

5.4.5

Short-Haul Accident: ................................................................................................................................. 31

CHAPTER 6: SHORT-HAUL DOCUMENTATION ......................................................................................... 32

6.1

Short-Haul Base Manager Duties ................................................................................................................... 32

6.2

Records and Reports- General ........................................................................................................................ 32

6.3

Short-Haul Injury Reporting ........................................................................................................................... 32

6.4

Training, Certification and Proficiency Records ............................................................................................ 32

6.5

Short-Haul Unit Log ....................................................................................................................................... 32

6.6

Short-Hauler Training Records....................................................................................................................... 32

6.6.1

Spotter Training Records ........................................................................................................................... 33

6.7

Equipment Master Records ............................................................................................................................ 33

CHAPTER 7: RISK MANAGEMENT ................................................................................................................ 34

APPENDIX A: TRAINING OUTLINE ................................................................................................................. 35

APPENDIX B: SHORT-HAUL TRAINING SYLLABUS 2015 .......................................................................... 45

APPENDIX C: CONSOLIDATED SHORT-HAUL TRAINING PLAN .............................................................. 60

APPENDIX D: DOCUMENTATION .................................................................................................................... 64

APPENDIX E: EQUIPMENT SOURCE LIST ..................................................................................................... 78

APPENDIX F: EMERGENCY MEDICAL SHORT-HAUL OPERATIONS REVIEW CHECKLIST ............... 83

APPENDIX G: GAR FOREST SERVICE SHORT-HAUL RISK ASSESSMENT .............................................. 97

APPENDIX H: NEMSHWT AND NSHOS CHARTER ....................................................................................... 98

APPENDIX I: SECONDARY RELEASE INSTALLATION AID .................................................................... 103

APPENDIX J: USFS SHORT-HAUL MEDICAL EQUIPMENT AND TRAINING ........................................ 104

APPENDIX K: GLOSSARY AND ACRONYMS .............................................................................................. 107

APPENDIX L: RISK ANALYSIS FOR SHORT-HAUL .................................................................................... 111

APPENDIX M: RESERVED (NEW EQUPMENT AND PROCEDURES PROPOSAL ) .................................. 126

APPENDIX N: RESERVED (NEW BASE START UP) .................................................................................... 126

C HAPTER 1: G ENERAL I NFORMATION

1.1

A UTHORITY & R ESPONSIBILITIES

The National Short-Haul Operations Sub-committee (NSHOS) is established under the National

Emergency Medical Short-Haul Working Team (NEMSHWT). The primary mission for the NSHOS is to establish a formal process for review and evaluation of current and proposed helicopter short-haul equipment, training, operating procedures and standardization for the United States Forest Service. Based on those evaluations, the NSHOS will submit recommendations to the NEMSHWT.

1.2

L

EADER

’

S

I

NTENT

The Forest Service’s Fire and Aviation Management Program goal is to provide the aviation tools to safely and efficiently accomplish missions related to the task of managing national forest resources. The forest Service Emergency Medical Short-Haul Program is no exception.

The intent of the Emergency Medical Short-Haul program is to ensure safe and efficient use of short-haul capabilities to aid injured personnel. In some cases, short-haul may be the most expedient means to get medical care to a person in need as well as extract an injured or ill employee for transport to definitive medical care.

The Forest Service highly values the safety and health of its employees. Implementation of a welldesigned Emergency Medical Short-Haul program can help us move toward the Chief’s aspiration of a zero-fatality workplace.

1.3

O BJECTIVES

The Emergency Medical Short-Haul Operations Plan is established to provide sufficient direction and criteria for program oversight, responsibilities, equipment, policy, and procedures for the Fire and

Aviation Management short-haul program.

1.4

D

EFINITION OF

S

HORT

-H

AUL

Short-Haul: To transport one or more persons suspended beneath a helicopter (HEC- human external cargo) utilizing Forest Service contracted helicopters.

1.5

P

URPOSE OF

S

HORT

-H

AUL

The short-haul mission is intended to extract injured personnel from an otherwise inaccessible location and transport them the shortest possible distance to a location where another type of medical transportation is available (ground ambulance, EMS/life flight, or internal in an agency helicopter).

Based on an appropriate risk assessment, short-haul for patient evacuation may be used under any of the following circumstances:



A patient has life and/or a loss of limb threatening injury or other medical complications that warrant prompt extraction.



When a conventional rescue operation would expose rescue personnel and/or patient to a higher degree of risk. The following factors can contribute to this: duration and/or difficulty of a conventional extraction; patient safety and potential medical complications; weather (past, present and predicted); available daylight; resource availability.

1.6

A PPROVAL

The Subcommittee will review and revise the Forest Service Emergency Medical Short-Haul Operations

Plan (EMSHOP) annually, with its subsequent recommendations forwarded to the NEMSHWT

National Emergency Medical Short-Haul Working Team Members

Chair Co-Chair

Larry Sutton

Fire Operations Risk Mgt. Specialist

Washington Office

Don Campbell

National Rappel Specialist

Washington Office

Vince Welbaum

National Helicopter Ops. Specialist

Washington Office

Eric Shambora

Aviation Risk Management

Washington Office

John Rollens

National Aviation Mgr.

National Park Service

Aaron Schoolcraft

Regional Aviation Officer

Pacific Northwest Region

Jennifer Symonds

FAM Medical Officer

Washington Office

Kim Christensen

NGACC Operations

Washington Office

John Giller

NIMO Operations

Washington Office

National Short-Haul Operations Subcommittee (NSHOS)

Chair

David Crumb

Helicopter Operations Spec

Northern Rockies Region

Voting Members

Washington Office- Seth A. Weber

National Short-Haul Operations Specialist

Region 1- David Crumb

Helicopter Operations Specialist

Region 3- Margaret McDonald


Region 5- Sean Aidukas


Region 8- Scott Fry


Co-Chair

Curtis Coots

Forest Fire Management Officer

Region 5 Mendocino NF

Region 2- Kris Paxson

Monument Helitack Supt.

Region 4- Currently Vacant

Region 6- Eric Scholl

Asst. Helicopter Operations Specialist

Region 9- Jim Edge


1.7

C REW C OMPOSITION

Crew size shall be a minimum of seven with a recommendation of ten. Three crewmembers shall be

EMT-B with a recommendation of five. Short-haulers and short-haul spotters will not be trained nor qualified concurrently with rappel operations or vice-versa.

Chapter 2:

S HORT -H AUL Q UALIFICATION AND R EQUIREMENTS

2.1

P ILOT R EQUIREMENTS

Pilot(s) shall comply with the following minimum requirements annually:

A.

Meets appropriate contract specific pilot standards.

B.

Successfully completes a flight evaluation administered by Interagency Helicopter Inspector Pilot and possess a current interagency card for short-haul SAR.

C.

12 day on -12 day off work schedules are recommended, but alternate schedules are approved during the Forest Service program evaluation phase in 2015.

D.

Attend Crew Resource Management at Consolidated Training

2.2

P

ILOT

S

HORT

-H

AUL

E

VALUATION

Pilots will be evaluated in accordance with the current Helicopter Practical Test Standards (PTS) available at https://www.nifc.gov/aviation/av_documents/av_helicopters/IHPPTS.pdf

Phase I-III will be performed with a static load. Phase IV will be performed with a live load.

In addition to the criteria listed in the PTS the following will be evaluated:

A.

Preflight briefing

B.

Hand signals

C.

Insertion Procedures (Attendant and equipment to the scene)

D.

Extraction procedures (Hook-up)

E.

Pilot/ground personnel actions in the event of an emergency

2.3

C HECK S POTTER

2.3.1

D UTIES AND R ESPONSIBILITIES

These duties and responsibilities are not all inclusive. There may be additional items that the RHOS and National Short-Haul Specialist consider Check Spotter Duties.

1.

Promote standardization

2.

Maintain a centralized roster for all spotter and spotter(t) within your region

3.

Perform evaluation of spotter trainees. Perform re-currency evaluations of carded spotters

4.

Provide documentation on Spotter and Short-hauler performance

5.

Present a willingness to participate and work with other check spotters in and out of the Region to achieve a common goal

6.

Represent on a National Level (Attend national short-haul workshops, participate on national related committees, and remain involved with short-haul issues)

7.

Follow all policies and procedures

8.

Review short-haul related material for standardization purposes

9.

Bring short-haul related issues to the National Short Haul Specialist, Helicopter Operations

Specialist, Regional Short-Haul Representative.

10.

Assist with the planning of Consolidated Short-Haul Training as necessary.

2.3.2

C HECK S POTTER I NITIAL C ERTIFICATION R EQUIREMENTS

A Regional Helicopter Operations Specialist (HOS) with concurrence of the National Short-haul

Specialist (NSHS) will approve short-haul check spotters in the form of a designated letter. In addition to meeting all spotter requirements, check spotter candidates must:

A.

Be qualified as HMGB.

B.

Have previously served as a qualified short-haul spotter for one season.

C.

Have demonstrated ability as an instructor and assisted in the training at two consolidated training academies or other equivalent experience.

2.3.3

A

NNUAL

C

ERTIFICATION

Short-haul check spotters must meet annual certifications requirements as a short-haul spotter.

2.3.4

P

ROFICIENCY

R

EQUIREMENTS

Short-haul qualified spotters are required to complete one short-haul evolution every 21 days.

2.4

S POTTER

2.4.1

S POTTER I NITIAL C ERTIFICATION R EQUIREMENTS

A Regional Helicopter Operations Specialist (HOS) with concurrence of the National Short-Haul

Specialist (NSHS) will approve short-haul spotters in the form of a designated letter. Spotter candidates must:

A.

Attend Consolidated Crew Resource Management Training.

B.

Be qualified as HMGB

C.

The following tasks will be completed under the guidance of a check spotter:

1.

Demonstrate knowledge of the inspection, care and maintenance of short-haul equipment.

2.

Demonstrate ability to rig the helicopter for short-haul, provide a safety briefing and conduct a safety check of short-haul personnel without procedural error.

3.

Demonstrate knowledge of emergency procedures.

4.

Spot six evolutions of short-haul, two in typical terrain without procedural error.

5.

Demonstrate ability to work with the pilot.

6.

Demonstrate knowledge of risk assessment and mission structure.

2.4.2

A

NNUAL

C

ERTIFICATION

A short-haul spotter who was previously certified as a spotter must complete and annual certification training as outline below in 2.5.

2.4.3

P ROFICIENCY R EQUIREMENTS

The short-haul spotter shall complete at least one short-haul proficiency check within 21 consecutive days.

2.5

S

HORT

-H

AULER

/ EMT S

HORT

-H

AULER

2.5.1

I NITIAL C ERTIFICATION R EQUIREMENTS

Short-hauler candidates must:

1.

Helicopter Crewmember or HECM (T).

2.

Attend Consolidated Crew Resource Management Training.

3.

Demonstrate knowledge of the inspection, care and maintenance of short-hauler equipment and rigging.

4.

Demonstrate knowledge of short-haul procedures.

5.

Demonstrate knowledge of emergency procedures.

6.

Participates in four short-haul training evolutions without procedural error. A minimum of two shall be in typical terrain.

7.

Demonstrate knowledge of risk assessment and mission components.

8.

Demonstrates understanding of patient packaging for short-haul evolution.

Short-Hauler EMT:

Meets all certification requirements above and qualified as EMT-B.

2.6

A

NNUAL

S

HORT

-H

AUL

C

ERTIFICATION

R

EQUIREMENTS

Short-haul personnel will attend annual consolidated short-haul training.

2.6.1

A

NNUAL

S

HORT

-H

AUL

T

RAINING FOR ALL

P

OSITIONS WILL

I

NCLUDE

A.

Participation in helicopter safety refresher training.

B.

Review and discussion of the short-haul operations plan, emergency procedures and risk assessment.

C.

Review short-haul related incidents and lessons learned. (IKAR Website)

2.6.2

C

HECK

S

POTTER AND

S

POTTER

A.

Equipment Inspection & Preparation.

B.

Demonstrate Personal Protective use along with equipment rigging and attachments.

C.

Demonstrate Hand Signals and radio communication.

D.

Documentation and Reporting.

E.

Spot three evolutions of short-haul, one in typical terrain without procedural error.

2.6.3

S HORT -H AULER / EMT S HORT -H AULER

The short-hauler shall complete at least three proficiency checks annually during recertification.

This exercise will include:

A.

Equipment inspection & preparation.

B.

Patient packaging and equipment usage.

C.

Familiarity of rigging short-haul equipment to the helicopter.

D.

Proper documentation and reporting.

E.

Complete three evolutions, one in typical terrain, without procedural error.

2.6.4

A

NNUAL

C

ERTIFICATION

A short-hauler who was previously certified must complete annual certification training as outlined below in 2.6

2.6.5

P

ROFICIENCY

R

EQUIREMENTS

The short-hauler shall complete at least one short-haul evolution within 21 consecutive days.

2.7

S HORT -H AUL C ERTIFICATION AND P ROFICIENCY C HART

It is the responsibility of the check spotter or short-haul program manager to determine, beyond the minimum requirement, the frequency of proficiency short-haul evolutions for all short-haul personnel, including the pilot. The check spotter may require 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.

Minimum Requirements:

Pilot

Initial Annual Proficiency

Pass the pilot practical exam in accordance with the PTS.

Successfully complete unit consolidated training

Pass the pilot practical exam in accordance with the PTS.

Successfully complete unit consolidated training

*Short-haul once every

21 days or less.

Check Spotter/Spotter Consolidated training.

Spot six loads, with two in typical terrain without procedural error.

Consolidated training.

Spot three loads with one in typical terrain without procedural error.

Spot once every 21 days or less.

Short-hauler Consolidated training.

Complete four shorthaul with two in typical terrain without procedural error.

Consolidated training.

Complete three shorthauls with one in typical terrain without procedural error.

Short-haul once every 21 days or less.

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

Without sacrificing efficiency or safety, short-haul pilots 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 of the same length as the haul-line normally used for short-haul.

* Short-haul flight evolution will consist of rigging, spotting, communications and demonstrated knowledge of standard procedures.

Chapter 3:

E QUIPMENT

3.1

P ERSONAL P ROTECTIVE C LOTHING

PPE shall be worn in accordance with current contract and IHOG Chart 9-1 during short-haul training and operations.

3.2

S HORT -H AUL L INE A TTACHMENT P OINT /A NCHOR

A short-haul anchor system is defined as the points of attachment of the short-haul line system to the helicopter. This system will include both a primary and a secondary backup anchor. The primary and backup anchor, where applicable, must be designed for spotter and/or pilot release in an emergency. The load must be fully jettisonable, utilizing two separate and independent actions. A 5:1 Static System

Safety Factor is required for the entire short-haul system from anchor to harness. The Static System

Safety Factor 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 excluded from this requirement. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) shall approve attachment devices or brackets, their installation and any proposed changes.

3.3

A

IRCRAFT

M

AINTENANCE

An FAA-certified Airframe and Power plant (A&P) mechanic will perform maintenance tasks associated with hard point short-haul anchor (Cargo hook).

3.4

E QUIPMENT M AINTENANCE & I NSPECTION



Short-Haul Base Manager will ensure inspections of all short-haul equipment and PPE are conducted.



The manufacturer will perform maintenance on software anchors.



3-ring release systems must be inspected annually and retired according to manufacture specifications. Software components that become fuel or oil soaked shall be retired from service.



Modification or repair of the anchor system shall be approved and certified by the FAA in accordance with applicable Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs).



Each program that performs short-haul missions will maintain records of inspection, maintenance and use for the anchor system. Records will be retained for the life of a particular product or as long as it is in use; reference Chapter 6 documentation.



The pilot and spotter will install and test anchor (primary and secondary). Short-haulers should observe and double- checks this procedure. Short-haul line, carabiners, and other equipment attached correctly, checked and operational.

3.5

S HORT -H AUL L INE

Short-haul line is used to suspend human external cargo (HEC) and medical equipment beneath the helicopter during short-haul operations. All programs will utilize the Priority 1 Air Rescue ™ short-haul lines. Approved line lengths are 100, 150, and 250 feet. Minimum inventory numbers are located in

Appendix D, Short-Haul Equipment. Industry standards dictate shelf life of 10 years from time of manufacture, however Forest Service standards contained in this guide dictate a maximum service life of

5 years from documented in service date, not to exceed the 10 year date of manufacture limitation.

3.5.1

S HORT -H AUL L INE R EQUIREMENTS

A.

Lines will be marked in a non-destructive manner for identification, in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendation.

B.

Line history will begin when the line is placed into service, noting the date of manufacture.

C.

Retirement of a short-haul line may be dictated by age, or during visual inspection. When in doubt, retire it. For further guidance with regard to line wear, inspection, care, and maintenance, refer to manufacturers specifications and guidelines.

3.5.2

Short-Haul Line Ballast

Short-haul line ballast is the ARS™ 25 pound line ballast

3.6

S HORT -H AUL S ECONDARY R ELEASE

The ARS™ Three Ring release will be the short-haul secondary release system.

3.6.1

3.6.1.1 I NSPECTION

The three ring release will be inspected for damage, wear, and functionality prior to each use.

Inspection forms can be found in Appendix C.

3.7

P

ATIENT

E

XTRACTION

E

QUIPMENT

All programs will utilize commercially made Bauman Bags, and Bauman Screamer Suits.

Bauman Bag attachment point will utilize (2) 10mm Maillon Rapide Delta tri-links and (1) Gemtor 5105 two stage carabineer. Each tri-link shall capture four rings on each side of the Bauman Bag and be wrench tightened. During extraction / insertion, the carabineer will capture the two tri-links and the

Attendant Ring.

Bauman Bag Bauman Bag Insertion / Extraction Configuration

Bauman Screamer suit will utilize (1) Yates 2’ Extra HD Anchor Runner and (2) Gemtor 5105 two stage carabineers. One carabineer will be pinned to each end loop. During extraction / insertion, one carabineer will capture the three rings of the Screamer Suit while the other attaches to the Attendant Ring.

Bauman Screamer Suit Ya tes 2’ Extra HD Anchor Runner

3.7.1

I

NSPECTION

A.

Inspected prior to each use.

B.

Inspect stitching and webbing for abrasion, wear or other damage.

C.

Metal attachment ring should be free from cracks, dings, or other damage.

3.8

S HORT -H AULER M EDICAL /P ERSONAL G EAR B AG ( S )

A) El Cap B) Quarter Dome C) Express

All programs will utilize the Metolius™ El Cap, Quarter Dome or Express models.





Haul bags are attached to the free end of the short-hauler primary attachment tether (daisy chain) by one two stage carabiner.

Bags may also be attached to the round extraction/insertion ring by one two stage carabiner.

3.8.1

I NSPECTION :

A. Inspected prior to each use.

B. Inspect stitching and webbing for abrasion, wear or other damage.

3.9

C

ARABINEERS

Two carabiner models are used in the short-haul program; three stage, and two stage.



Three stage 1/2" Steel Large D Quik-Lok Gold, Omega Pacific™ carabiner. This connects the short-haul line to cargo hook and three ring release as well as to the spotter tether attachment. It may also be employed to connect two length of haul line. For Spotter configuration, the harness is attached to the spotter tether attachment ring, at the aft waist belt attachment ring.



Two Stage carabineers are Gemtor Model 5105 two stage auto locking carabineer with captive pin option. These are utilized at tether attachment points, human short- hauler connections, and cargo connections.

NOTE: Carabineers are designed to be loaded longitudinally. If load occurs on the side, i.e., cross gate loading, failure may occur.

3.10

S POTTER /S HORT -H AULER H ARNESS



The Yates Heli-Ops 338 ™ Harness is used exclusively for both the spotter and the short-hauler.

For short-hauler configuration, tether is attached via girth hitch to the front chest ring.



Two (2) Sizes of harnesses are available; S/M and L/XL

3.10.1

I NSPECTION

A.

The harness must be inspected by the user prior to operation.

B.


C.

Check all buckles, rings, and adjusters for correct function.

D.

Tether inspections will be documented as part of the harness inspection log in Appendix C.

3.11

K NIFE

The Gerber Vital Zip™ knife will be utilized as the cut away knife in instances of entanglement and emergency situations.



Mounting can be on either the right or left side of the Yates harness. See Appendix D for specific mounting area(s).

3.12

S

HORT

-H

AULER

T

ETHER

Tethers will be inspected at the same time as the respective harness or screamer suit that they are used with. Tether (spotter, primary, and/or secondary) inspection documentation is included on the respective log for the harnesses or screamer suits to which they are assigned. If any piece of equipment recorded on that sheet is retired, a new sheet with the proper ID numbers should be started.

The Metolius ™ Ultimate Daisy shall be used exclusively as the short-hauler tether attachment. In Forest

Service Emergency Medical Short-Haul Programs there is only one tether utilized in the operation.



Tether is girth hitched to the attachment point on the front of harness, and attached to the attendant ring in short-haul operations.

3.13

S POTTER T ETHER A TTACHMENT

A) Air Rescue Systems B) MTDC-993

The spotter tether attachment will secure the spotter tether connection point to the aircraft, positioning it to the centerline of the aircraft. Air Rescue Systems and MTDC-993 spotter tether attachments may be employed depending on Type III aircraft.

3.13.1

I NSPECTION

A.

Inspected by a spotter prior to each use.

B.


C.

Metal adjusters and attachment ring should be free from cracks, dings, or other damage.

3.14

E

QUIPMENT

C

HANGES

Proposed changes in helicopter short-haul equipment shall be forwarded to the Regional Representatives, and then forwarded to the National Short-Haul Specialist. Short-Haul Specialist will then decide if proposed change warrants an NSHOS vote for change. The resulting recommendation; if voted to change will be forwarded to NEMSHWT group for approval.

Chapter 4:

O PERATIONS

4.1

F LIGHT R ESTRICTIONS



Daytime Helicopter Visual Flight Rules.



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

4.2

R ECONNAISSANCE F LIGHT



The purposes of the reconnaissance check flight is to size up the scene, determine if short-haul is the appropriate response, and if so, collect the necessary environmental data and aircraft performance data necessary for the risk analysis (GAR). The short-haul team will also identify a suitable short-haul site.



Flight Following during all flights is required.



The spotter will assist with navigation and be alert to hazards (utilize hazard map, watch for other aircraft, clearances, wires, changing conditions, etc.).



The spotter and pilot will evaluate the following short-haul site characteristics: proximity to the incident site (if insertion/extraction site is not at the incident site); approximate size; slope; rotor clearance; wind conditions; ground hazards; approach and departure routes; whether non-incident personnel are in the area; and flight hazards.



Personnel already on site should assist with the gathering of this pertinent information.



The pilot will perform a hover/power check at the proposed short-haul site during which the following additional criteria will be noted: GPS location (location of staging site, if using one); outside air temperature (OAT); power (adequate or not adequate to hold hover at the site or establish positive rate of climb); altitude; and GPS coordinates of the site



The information gathered during the hover check is critical for the pilot and spotter for the ongoing risk assessment process and to ensure the aircraft is performing within its capability. Consider identification of a secondary pickup, or drop-off, site for contingency purposes.



Based on the information from the reconnaissance check flight, the pilot and spotter will make the final determination if, under existing conditions, a short-haul is within the performance capabilities and power limitations of the helicopter.



The pilot and spotter then make the final decision as to whether or not a helicopter short-haul is warranted after consideration of all other related factors.

4.3

M ISSION B RIEFING

A briefing shall be provided by the spotter prior to short-haul operations and must include the pilot,

HMGB, and to the greatest degree possible, all persons involved in the operation.

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

•

Short-haul GAR.

•

Nature of the mission.

•

Location / fire behavior.

•

Terrain.

•

Weather.

•

Landing areas.

•

Aircraft capabilities (load calculation, performance, etc.).

•

Individual responsibilities (line management, commo/radio management, patient management).

•

Cargo, if applicable.

•

Hazards.

•

Safety considerations.

•

Emergency procedures.

•

Situational awareness review.

NOTE: Risk assessment is an ongoing process to be applied throughout the operation.

4.4

H

ELICOPTER

E

QUIPMENT

C

HECK





Cargo: Remove items not essential to the mission and secure all other cargo.

Cabin configuration: As directed by the pilot, monitor adjustments as the cabin is configured for short-haul.



Secondary release system is installed tested, and secure:

Refer to Appendix H: Secondary Release Installation Aid



Short-haul line is correctly attached to both the primary anchor (aircraft cargo hook) and the secondary release system.



Spotter tether attachment point is secure.



Seatbelts are secure and operational.



Maps and mission information are secured but accessible.



Communications check: All radios are operational and on correct frequencies. (A radio check must be done to establish communications between the aircraft and appropriate personnel, including pilot, spotter, short-haulers, and ground crewmembers).



Intercom system operational. Due to other radio traffic use of the hot-mike is not recommended.



Spotter tether attached to spotter attachment point, carabineer functioning.

4.5

S HORT -H AULER B UDDY C HECK a) Flight Helmet a.

Condition - Chin strap secure, adjusted for snug fit, with no loose ends loose straps, or cracks. b.

Approved Eye protection (ANSI Z87) / visor down and secured. b) Fire Resistant Clothing a.

Collar up, shirt tucked in, buttoned to the top or flight suit fully zipped. b.

Pockets with Velcro or buttons secure, pockets with zippers zipped. c.

Sleeves rolled down covering arms – no holes, clean & tight at wrist. d.

Pant cuffs over approved boots, pockets secure. e.

Boots. f.

Nomex Flight Gloves. c) Harness – Buckles connected, straps tucked, no twists, fit and snug. d) Tether- securely attached, no wear marks, carabineer operational and attached. e) Knife – secured on harness at the waist belt, horn down. f) Radio- attached under the Yates harness, connected to the patch cord, radio on, correct frequency, scan off. g) Single tap on shoulder to indicate short-hauler to turn around. h) Short-hauler back side. a.

Helmet –avionics cord visually inspected plugged into the helmet.

b.

Nomex clothing collar up, sleeves, pants. c.

Yates Harness. i.

Webbing & visible stitching in good condition. ii.

No twists. iii.

Buckles & loose ends secured. iv.

Attendant ring present and attached to harness at the waist. i) Indicate short-hauler to turn around with a tap on the shoulder. j) Exchange thumbs-up “I agree; I am OK”

4.6

S

POTTER

C

HECK

1.

Flight Helmet. a.

Condition - Chin strap secure, adjusted for snug fit, with no loose ends loose straps, or cracks. b.

Approved Eye protection (ANSI Z87) / visor down and secured.

2.

Fire Resistant Clothing. a.

Shirt tucked in, collar up, buttoned to the top, flight suit fully zipped. b.

Pockets with Velcro or buttons secure, pockets with zippers zipped. c.

Sleeves rolled down covering arms – no holes, clean & tight at wrist. d.

Nomex Flight Gloves, in good condition, free of pitch or contaminants. e.

Pant cuffs over approved boots, pockets secure.

3.

Harness – Yates Harness. a.

Webbing & visible stitching in good condition. b.

No twists. c.

Buckles connected & loose ends secured.

4.

Knife – secured on harness at the waist belt, horn down.

5.

Indicate spotter to turn around with a tap on the shoulder.

6.

Spotter’s backside. a.

Helmet in good condition, visual check of the avionics connection. b.

Collar up. c.

Yates Harness. i.

Webbing & visible stitching in good condition. ii.

No twists. iii.

Buckles & loose ends secured.

7.

Tap on shoulder to indicate spotter to turn around.

8.

Exchange thumbs-up - “I agree; I am ok.”

9.

Spotter tether attached to spotter attachment point.

10.

In the absence of a short-hauler, pilot will ensure tether is connected to spotter and attachment point.

4.7

H

ELICOPTER

S

HORT

-H

AUL

I

NSERTION

/E

XTRACTION

P

ROCEDURES

4.7.1

O

PERATIONAL

P

HASE



A load calculation is prepared for a reconnaissance check flight and the proposed site and operation. Spotter and crewmembers configure for short haul. Flight Following is required during all short-haul operations.



During short-haul operations the Spotter/Pilot will request/ verify that the radio frequency is cleared for “emergency traffic” and will advise when complete with operations.

4.7.2

S

HORT

-H

AUL

T

EAM

D

UTIES

(E

XTRACTION

)



Pilot initiates final approach to the extraction site, slows descent and stabilizes the haul line.



Pilot initiates radio contact with short-hauler(s)



Short-hauler relays a.

Winds b.

Environmental c.

Weights d.

Configuration i.e. “Two short-haulers and Bauman bag” e.

States, “ Ready to receive .” f.

Response from helicopter to ground crew “ inbound ”.



Short-hauler(s) may assist pilot by calling out distance above the canopy and will assist pilot in calling out distances above ground. Short-hauler(s) should also point out any hazards in the area to the pilot. All Short-hauler radio traffic must be concise.

• Short-hauler will call distance from lowest point on line (god ring/load) to helicopter “five zero”

• Helicopter responds “ Copy, five zero”

• Height above ground will then be delineated by calling out “four zero, three zero, two zero, one zero” . Short-hauler then states “ eye level ”

• When the short-hauler has control of the line, the pilot places the line ballast on the ground and the short-hauler communicates “got it , this indicates to pilot to hold and maintain hover.

• When ready, the Pilot radios short-hauler to “hook up” and Spotter gives the “ hook signal

” simultaneously.

• Once hooked in, the short-hauler communicates “ready” and gives the “ lift signal ”.

•

Helicopter states

“coming up”

and lifts short-hauler(s). Short-hauler communicates and gives the “clear of obstacles signal” when appropriate for forward flight.

4.7.3

I NFLIGHT C ONSIDERATIONS



Short-haul line will be flown with line ballast in order to prevent excessive trailing behind the aircraft in forward flight.



Forward flight will not exceed 50 knots with the short-haul line deployed.



In flight spinning or position changes can be prevented by short-hauler extending an arm or a leg.



Radio communication quality is best if the helmet boom mic is flush against the lips and cupped by hand and the head is turned away from the wind.



If, at any time during the transport or ferry portion of the short-haul insertion or extraction, radio communications are lost or become inadequate, the pilot and spotter may decide to return to the staging site.



If the short-hauler(s) lose communication or wish to terminate the mission , initiate the

“wave-off “ hand signal.

4.7.4

S

HORT

-H

AUL

T

EAM

D

UTIES

(I

NSERTION

)



Pilot initiates final approach to the extraction site, slows descent and stabilizes the shorthauler(s)/load on the line.



Short-hauler(s) may assist pilot by calling out distance above the canopy and will assist pilot in calling out distances above ground. Short-hauler(s) should also point out any hazards in the area to the pilot. All short-hauler radio traffic must be concise.



Short-hauler will indicate when load is at “ five zero” feet.

 Pilot acknowledges “ five zero”



Height above ground will then be delineated by calling out

“four zero, three zero, two

 zero, one zero, eye level” .

When the short-hauler and line ballast are on the ground the short-hauler states “ secure

”



When ready, the pilot will say "unhook" ; simultaneously, the spotter will give the unhook signal. Short-hauler(s) unhooks and radios the pilot that they are clear of the line by saying

"clear” and gives the lift signal.



If receiving an unattended external load, short-haul ground personnel will follow the standard height above ground call outs.

4.9

H AND S IGNALS

Forest Service EMERGENCY Medical

SHORT-HAUL Spotter HAND Signals

Wave – off

Hook / Un - hook

Forest Service EMERGENCY medical

SHORT-HAULER Rescuer HAND SIGNAL

Lift Hold hover

Clear of obstacles

OK? OK? Wave Off

Chapter 5:

I N -F LIGHT E MERGENCIES

NOTE: There are many circumstances that can constitute an in-flight emergency. Pilots, spotters and short-hauler must understand the significance of an inflight emergency with human external cargo (HEC). Pilots, spotters, and short-haulers must discuss in-flight emergencies and their respective roles. During an emergency is NOT the time and or place to discover that, “What you heard is not what I meant.” This is accomplished through planning, briefings, and training.

5.1

E MERGENCY C OMMUNICATIONS AND C ATEGORIES

In short-haul, clear and concise communication between the spotter and pilot is critical to a successful outcome. During short-haul operations, there are two basic categories of in-flight emergencies.

1.

Immediate response- those that require an immediate action (land as soon as possible).

2.

Delayed response- those that permit a delayed action (land as soon as practicable).

The pilot is trained to respond to any in-flight emergencies in accordance with the Rotorcraft

Flight Manual in addition to the emergency procedures outlined in this plan.

5.2

I MMEDIATE R ESPONSE E MERGENCIES (L AND AS S OON AS P OSSIBLE )

There are a limited number of emergencies that fall into this category. Emergencies are characterized by a need to transition immediately to forward flight, establish an autorotation or execute a forced landing without an external load. In this type of emergency, positive outcome may be impacted by the ability to jettison external loads quickly.

1.

Examples of Possible Emergencies: a.

Engine Failure b.

Tail Rotor Failure c.

Hard-over of controls d.

Engine over speed/driveshaft failure e.

Compressor Stall f.

Governor Failure g.

Fire

5.3

D ELAYED R ESPONSE E MERGENCIES (L AND AS S OON AS P RACTICABLE )

Many events, typically mechanical or environmental, fall into this category. These events are characterized by an ability to delay the departure from the short-haul hover. These events typically allow time to place the load safely on the ground prior to departing the hover.

5.3.1

E

XAMPLES OF

P

OSSIBLE

P

ROBLEMS h.

Transmission/Engine/Tail Rotor Gear Box Chip Light i.

Hydraulic Failure j.

Oil temp/Oil pressure light k.

Hydraulic temp or pressure light l.

Unknown Master Caution m.

Fire light n.

Stuck pedal o.

Fuel control or governor failure high side p.

Electrical failure q.

Compressor Stall r.

Adverse environmental conditions s.

Line Entanglement t.

NOTE: These events may not require immediate action other than communication and monitoring.

5.4

P ILOT AND S POTTER A CTIONS

–

S HORT -H AUL O PERATIONS

5.4.1

S HORT -H AUL I MMEDIATE R ESPONSE A CTIONS

NOTE: “MAYDAY, MAYDAY” and the subsequent actions taken by the pilot and spotter will occur almost simultaneously. The pilot will attempt to gain forward flight, which may require releasing the haul line. Any failure to immediately release the line may pose a threat to the aircraft and personnel onboard, as well as increase the risk to the short-hauler.

Short-Haul Immediate Response (Land as Soon as Possible)

PILOT DUTIES

Pilot must identify this emergency accurately and without delay. Additionally, pilot must simultaneously alert the spotter by stating "Mayday, Mayday".

SPOTTER DUTIES

The spotter’s response must be immediate. Additionally the spotter should attempt to verify the severity of the emergency and verbally confirm the pilots intended actions.

PILOT

STATES

PILOT ACTION/SPOTTER RESPONSE

SHORT-

HAUL

LINE

RIGGED,

NO HEC

“MAYDAY

,

MAYDAY”

(over the shorthaul operation frequency)

SPOTTER: RELEASE SECONDARY, TAKE SEAT,

FASTEN SEAT BELT, AND PREPARE FOR EMERGENCY

LANDING.

PILOT: RELEASE PRIMARY.

SPOTTER: “ CONFIRM MAYDAY?

” ATTEMPTS TO

ASSESS URGENCY OF EMERGENCY.

SHORT

HAUL

LINE

RIGGED,

W/HEC

“MAYDAY

,

MAYDAY”


PILOT: “ ROGER MAYDAY

” .

SPOTTER: RELEASE SECONDARY, TAKES SEAT,

FASTENS SEAT BELT, AND PREPARES FOR

EMERGENCY LANDING.

SHORT-HAULER: ASSESSES SITUATION,

DETERMINES BEST COURSE OF ACTION.

PILOT: EVALUATE SITUATION, RELEASE PRIMARY AS

NECESSARY

NOTE: HEC will only be released when the pilot determines that retention of the HEC will jeopardize the survivability of the aircraft and crew.

5.4.2

S HORT -H AUL D ELAYED R ESPONSE A CTIONS

See table below for Pilot and Spotter actions during an in-flight emergency or situation that may be addressed through a delayed response.

NOTE: Events of an environmental nature may be resolved by waiting for the event to subside.

An event of this nature requires that the pilot inform the spotter of the actions required to address the event. If at any point continued flight is hazardous due to environmental conditions, the pilot will state “EXPEDITE, EXPEDITE”.

Short-Haul Delayed Response (Land As Soon As Practicable)

PILOT DUTIES

During a delayed response emergency, “EXPEDITE, EXPEDITE” , is intended as the initial alert for the crew that the short-haul must be halted due to an aircraft malfunction or environmental condition. It should not be the only communication. As the situation allows the pilot should advise the crew of the aircraft status and the intended duration of the flight. Safe delivery of the HEC to the nearest suitable site should happen immediately, Delays may occur when no suitable site is readily available

SPOTTER DUTIES

The spotter should assist the pilot in locating a suitable area for the HEC

PILOT

STATES

SPOTTER ACTION/RESPONSE

SHORT

HAUL

LINE

RIGGED,

NO HEC

SHORT

HAUL

LINE

RIGGED,

W/HEC

“EXPEDITE

EXPEDITE”


SPOTTER: RELEASE SECONDARY, TAKES SEAT AND

FASTENS SEAT BELT.

PILOT: EVALUATE SITUATION AND RELEASE

PRIMARY AS NECESSARY.

PILOT/SPOTTER: NOTE LOCATION OF JETTISONED

EQUIPMENT FOR SUBSEQUENT RETRIEVAL

SPOTTER: ASSIST IN LOCATING THE NEAREST

SUITABLE AREA TO INSERT HEC.

“EXPEDITE

EXPEDITE”


PILOT: INSERT HEC TO SUITABLE AREA.

SPOTTER: RELEASE SECONDARY, TAKES SEAT AND

FASTENS SEAT BELT, STATES

“CLEAR”

.

PILOT: RELEASE PRIAMARY.

PILOT/SPOTTER: NOTE LOCATION OF HEC AND

EQUIPMENT FOR SUBSEQUENT RETRIEVAL

Expedite, Expedite” and the subsequent actions taken by the pilot and spotter will occur almost simultaneously. The pilot will attempt to gain forward flight, which may require releasing the short-haul line. Any failure to immediately release the line may pose a threat to the aircraft and personnel onboard, as well as increase the risk to the short-hauler.

5.4.3

S HORT -H AUL I NCIDENT (R EPORTING & I NVESTIGATION ):

The short-haul spotter and local program manager are responsible for reporting helicopter short-haul incidents through the proper documentation and aviation channels at the Forest and Regional levels

[References: FSM 5723, IHOG].

Short-haul spotters and managers will use a “ SAFECOM

” to report these incidents. https://www.safecom.gov/

5.4.4

S

HORT

-H

AUL

E

QUIPMENT

F

AILURE

(R

EPORTING

& I

NVESTIGATIONS

):

If any short-haul equipment failure occurs the short-haul spotter will immediately secure the equipment and supporting documentation for review and investigation by the Short-Haul Specialist and NSHOS will be notified immediately. The National Short-Haul Specialist will contact MTDC. An Incident Report

(SAFECOM) will be submitted through the proper aviation channels.

The short-haul spotter will suspend operations until the appropriate equipment can be obtained to continue operations.

5.4.5

S HORT -H AUL A CCIDENT :

Notification will be made to the Forest Unit or IMT who in turn will notify the Regional Aviation Officer to begin an accident investigation process. The HMGB/Spotter will secure as evidence all short-haul equipment and documentation, the aircraft, aircraft records, fuel truck and all of its associated records. The accident site will be secured and maintained as evidence for the subsequent investigation.

Chapter 6:

S HORT -H AUL D OCUMENTATION

6.1

S HORT -H AUL B ASE M ANAGER D UTIES



It is the responsibility of the Short-Haul Base Manager to ensure that proper short-haul documentation is current and maintained properly. This includes, but is not limited to documentation of training, qualifications, proficiency, equipment, incident reports, and short- haul missions.



Manage short-haul spotter and ground crew member qualifications, records, and associated equipment documentation.



Ensure inspections of all short-haul equipment and PPE are conducted.



Ensure AAR are completed and documented after all short-haul operations.



The short-haul base manager will be responsible for completing all documentation referenced in this chapter.

6.2

R

ECORDS AND

R

EPORTS

G

ENERAL

Record keeping is mandatory for administering short-haul operations. Accurate records and reports on short-haul activities, equipment use, training, and incidents/injuries shall be maintained.

All short-haul logs are official documents and will be kept on the forms contained in Appendix C or electronic equivalent. Short-haul logs will be archived indefinitely.

All short-haul equipment that is removed from service (retired) must be destroyed to the point that it can no longer be utilized for its intended purpose. Any equipment that requires documentation must show retirement date on the “Equipment Log” when removed from service.

NOTE: All electronic records should be backed up to an external drive or server. A hard copy of electronic record will be printed at least once annually. RapRec, an electronic data storage system, will be used for this purpose.

6.3

S HORT -H AUL I NJURY R EPORTING

All short-haul injuries, in addition to being reported through established agency protocols, will be reported through the Regional Helicopter Operations Specialist and forwarded to the National

Short-Haul Specialist.

6.4

T

RAINING

, C

ERTIFICATION AND

P

ROFICIENCY

R

ECORDS

NOTE: Copies of certifying and recertifying documentation will be maintained in individual permanent records and forwarded to the IQCS Account Manager.

6.5

S

HORT

-H

AUL

U

NIT

L

OG

All short-hauls, spots and related information must be entered into the short-haul unit log found in

Appendix C or electronic equivalent and shall be readily available for review. The spotter or base manager will ensure information is entered into the logs in a timely manner and the logs are kept current.

6.6

S HORT -H AULER T RAINING R ECORDS

The short-hauler training record for initial training and recertification of short-haulers shall document each individual step in the training. Competency at each level of the training must be

demonstrated by the trainee before the lead trainer shall permit advancement to the next step

Appendix C). Each short-hauler will maintain a record of training, proficiency and operational short-hauls in the short-haul unit log.

6.6.1

S POTTER T RAINING R ECORDS

The spotter training record for spotters shall document each individual step in the training.

Competency at each level of the training must be demonstrated by the trainee before the check spotter(s) shall permit advancement to the next step (Appendix C). Each spotter will maintain a record of training, proficiency and operational spots of short-haulers in the short-haul Unit Log.

6.7

E

QUIPMENT

M

ASTER

R

ECORDS

All equipment requiring documentation will be assigned a unique identification number. The number will be retired with the piece of equipment. The equipment below shall have a log assigned to document inspections and service life. At a minimum, each log shall identify the ID#, date of manufacture, date in service and date of retirement for each piece of equipment. All inspections will be notated by date and signed by the inspector. Any deficiencies, wear, irregularities etc. shall be noted and brought to the attention of a spotter. Reference Chapter 3-

Equipment, for requirements for marking and inspecting equipment.



Bauman



Bag Bauman



Screamer Suit



3-Ring Release



Spotter/Short-hauler Harness



Short-haul Line

Chapter 7:

R ISK M ANAGEMENT

This Strategic Program Risk Assessment (Appendix L) addresses the hazards associated with short-haul operations only. All other hazards associated with helicopter operations are addressed in the Aviation Risk

Management Workbook.

*The Daily Operational Risk Assessment (DORA) to be used for short-haul will be the GAR Model (Appendix

G). The GAR will be implemented prior to every mission and readdressed as conditions warrant.

APPENDIX A: T RAINING O UTLINE

Unit I: Program Orientation and Overview

Suggested Time: 3 to 5 hours

Training Aids: Training PowerPoint, Flip chart, FS EMSHOP , Local Helibase Operations and Aviation Plans,

DOI Aviation Life Support Equipment Handbook (ALSE), Interagency Helicopter Operations Guide (IHOG)

Objectives: To provide students and pilots with a general overview of short-haul program and policy requirements.

OUTLINE NOTES

Make sure students have copies of the Short-haul

Operations Plan and Local Helibase Operations and Aviation Plans, ALSE Handbook, and IHOG.

It is preferable that students are given these documents, along with other pertinent reading material, prior to scheduled training.

Instructor will review with students the policy requirements and short-haul guidelines.

I. Program history

A.

Local

B.

National (by Agency)

II. Review Agency Policy and Guidelines

A. Review EMSHOP

B. Mission Specific

1.

New Programs

2.

Pilot

Requirements

3.

Training Requirements

4.

Check Spotter

5.

Spotter

6.

Short-Hauler

7.

EMT

8.

Annual Requalification

9.

Proficiency Requirements

10.

Operational Requirements

11.

Load Calculations

12.

Flight Restrictions

13.

Mission Briefing

14.

Risk Assessment

15.

Equipment Checks

16.

Duties



Pilot

 check spotter

 spotter

 short haulers



EMT

III. Equipment Orientation

A.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

1.

Clothing

2.

Helmet

3.

Harness

4.

Tether Attachment



Knife



Carabiner

5.

Fire Shelter, Haul Bag contents, etc.

Students should understand why and how the program developed locally and nationally.

EMSHOP, 1.5

EMSHOP, 2

Refer to NEMSHWT briefing papers in

EMSHOP, Appendix G.

Highlight the relevance of the GAR risk assessment process and programmatic Shorthaul Risk Analysis

EMSHOP, 3-4

FSM, EMSHOP, IHOG, etc.

EMSHOP, 3

IHOG, Etc

OUTLINE

B Secondary Release System

4.

1. Release System Function

2. Rating Specifications

3. Installation Procedures/Toolkit

Inspection Requirements

C. Short-Haul Lines and Equipment

1. Hardware (carabineers, steel rings, specs and care)

•

Material construction and requirements

•

Inspection (preflight and post flight)

•

Care during use

•

Cleaning

•

Storage

•

Retirement

 Documentation protocols

2. Software (Ropes, Harness, Tether, Ballast, Bauman

Bag, Screamer Suit)

•

Construction and requirements

•


•

Care during use

•

Cleaning

•

Storage

•

Retirement



Documentation protocols

IV. Communications

A. Radio/ Patch cord

B. Hand Signals

V. Safety and Emergency Procedures

A. Hazards and Problems

B. In-Flight Emergencies



Communications and categories



Pilot/Spotter Actions



Short-hauler considerations

D. Environmental Considerations

•

Weather and fire behavior

•

LCES

•

All Hazard incidents

VI. Documentation

A. Training and Qualifications

B. Operational Short-Haul

C. Training Short-Hauls

D. Case Incident Reports

E. SAFECOM/Mishaps

G.

F. AARs/FLAs

Equipment tracking

NOTES

Discuss secondary release, types of carabineers, inspection requirements, and maintenance.

EMSHOP, Appendix H

EMSHOP, 3

Intent is general equipment introduction, familiarization and proper use.

EMSHOP, 3

EMSHOP, 4

Standard hand signals will be demonstrated and practiced. EMSHOP, 4

EMSHOP,5

Awareness of risk associated with Aerial operation and flight profile

Emphasize importance of documentation and ensuring a reporting culture.

Rap Rec Program introduction

EMSHOP,6.3

Unit II: Crew Resource Management (CRM)


Training Aids: Flip chart, CRM PowerPoint, Lessoned Learned Document, FSM 5709.16, Ch. 20. Consider utilizing a US

Forest Service certified CRM instructor.

Objectives: To provide all short-haul participants with a refresher of crew resource management principles, as it applies to the short-haul mission.

OUTLINE NOTES

I. Crew Resource Management Basics Stress the importance of human factors as they relate to

CRM, mission stress, fatigue, etc.

II. Human Factors

A.

Five hazardous attitudes

B.

Risk aversion/tolerance

C.

Cognitive perception (change blindness, illusion, etc.)

D.

Physical factors (Fatigue, drugs, etc.)

III. Review 7 Critical Skills of CRM

A.

Decision Making

B.

Assertiveness

C.

Mission Analysis

D.

Communication

E.

Leadership

F.

Adaptability (flexibility)

G.

Situational Awareness

IV. GAR Risk Assessment

V. Lessoned Learned Case Study

A.

ex. Kelly Fire / Freeze Out Ridge

B.

Other FLA’s

VI. FAM Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Handbook, 2014

Review contributing factors related to Review Panther Fire hoist operation, 2008, 2009 Willow Creek Accident and

CAMP Hoist Accident; Refer to Pupulidy case studies.

Instructor will review with students the general principle of

CRM.

Students should understand the importance of the CRM program and how it related to the Short-haul medical extraction mission.

Every short-haul operation requires constant re-assessment.

Review the risk assessment analysis and GAR procedure.

Recommend prior training and completion of the Forest

Service Crew Resource Management course in accordance with FSH 5709.16, Ch. 10.

Research local sources for CISD support opportunities.

Unit III: Field Training


Training Aids:

Objectives:

Helicopter, lifting device, raised platform/hard-point, ground markers/targets, local equipment, and typical terrain.

To train and qualify students in safe short-haul procedures and operations.

OUTLINE NOTES

I.

Step-by-Step Orientation Ground Mockup with Helicopter

A. Helicopter

Configuration and

Equipment

•

Pilot briefing of aircraft

• Rigging equipment and rope

• Doors removed and secured

•

Loose equipment removed/secured

•

Radio frequency established

• Radio check with pilot and personnel

•

Understanding of mission/role

B. Short-Haul Personnel Inspections (Buddy checks)

• Flight Helmet

•

Eye protection

•

Fire resistant clothing / boots

•

Gloves

• Harness

• Personal tethers

•

Knife

•

Radio

•

Thumbs up

C . Short-Haul Equipment

•

Screamer Suit / tether

•

Bauman Bag

• Haul Bags/ tether

D. Communications

•

Hand signals

• Radio calls

E.

Insertion and Extraction Procedures

II . Lift Training

A. B u d d y C h e c k ( Short-haul personnel form pairs if applicable)

B. Students are raised 4 feet off ground and set down.

C. Practice use of hand signals and communications

D. Bauman Bag/Screamer Suit/haul bag Rigging

E. Emergency Procedures

F. Simulation

•

Aircraft lifts to hover until rope is off the ground and pilot makes a traffic pattern. When ready pilot initiates communication and confirms radio comms and environmental parameters with short-haulers.

• Short-hauler(s) will assist pilot by calling out distance above ground. Short-hauler(s) should also point out any hazards to pilot. All short-hauler radio traffic must be concise.

• Heights above ground will be delineated by calling

“ five zero, four zero, three zero, two zero, one zero, eye level

”. Note: Pilot will acknowledge “ five zero

” at the start of count and then is silent.

• When the short-hauler has control of the line, the pilot places the line ballast on the ground and the short-hauler communicates “ got it

”.

• When ready, the Pilot radios short-hauler to “ hook up ” and

Spotter gives the “ hook signal

” simultaneously.

•

Once hooked in, the short-hauler communicates

“ ready ” and

Reference chapter 4 operations plan

Pilot gives safety briefing on helicopter

Refer to Appendix H.

The pilot and spotter will install and test anchor (primary and secondary). Short-haulers should be proficient in configuration

Short-haul rope, carabineers, and other equipment attached correctly, checked and operational.

Tactile checks

Short Hauler stands with carabineer in hand showing functioning carabineer with tether outstretched

Each short-hauler will check partner, working from head to toe. EMSHOP, 4

Short-hauler checks spotter.

Demonstrate harness adjustment and use of attachment points.

Radio/communication check.

Demonstrate standard procedures, communications and hand signal, EMSHOP, 4

If more than one short-hauler, one is responsible for communications, the other for tending the rope/bag/patient.

Stage 1:single attendant with haul bag

-buddy checks

-harness fit/adjustment

-comms/radio

-hand signals

Stage 2:double attendant with haul bag

-buddy checks

-division of duties

-commo/radio/ hand signals

-screamer/Bauman bag

Stage 3:emergency procedures

OUTLINE gives the “ lift signal ”.

• Pilot states “ coming up

” and lifts short-hauler(s).

Short-hauler communicates “ clear ” and gives the “clear of obstacles signal ” when clear for forward flight.

NOTES

III . Live Helicopter Evolution Training

A. Complete evolution flights with helicopter

•

B. Short-hauler duties (preparation for short-haul insertion/extraction)


• Short-hauler(s) will assist pilot by calling out distance above ground. Short-hauler(s) should also point out any hazards to pilot. All short-hauler radio traffic must be concise.

• Heights above ground will be delineated by calling “five zero, four zero, three zero, two zero, one zero, eye level” .

Note: Pilot will acknowledge “ five zero

” at the start of count and then is silent .

• When the short-hauler has control of the line, the pilot places the weight bag on the ground and the short-hauler communicates

“got it”.

• When ready, the Pilot radios short-hauler to “ hook up ” and


” simultaneously.

• Once hooked in, the short-hauler communicates “ ready ” and gives the “ lift signal ”.

• Pilot states “ coming up ” and lifts short-hauler(s). Shorthauler communicates “ clear

” and gives the “ clear of obstacles signal ” when clear for forward flight.

Live helicopter training will be divided into stages.

Stage 1:point to point

-double attendant

-single attendant

Stage 2: patten flight

-double attendant

-single attendant

Stage3: Typical terrain

-double attendant insertion in a variety of medical gear configurations ex. Bauman bag, screamer suit

-single attendant extraction

-single attendant extraction with a variety of medical gear configurations

IV . In Flight



Considerations



Short-haul rope will not be flown un-weighted in order to prevent excessive trailing behind the aircraft in forward flight.



Forward flight should not exceed 50 knots with the

Short-haul line deployed.



In flight spinning or position changes can be prevented by extending an arm or a leg.

Radio communication quality is best if the helmet boom mic is flush against the lips and cupped by hand and the head is turned away from the wind.



If, at any time during the transport or ferry portion of the short-haul insertion or extraction, radio communications are lost or become inadequate, the pilot and spotter may decide to return to the staging site.



If the short-hauler(s) lose communication or wish to terminate the mission , initiate the wave-off hand signal.

Evaluate training locations ahead of time.

OUTLINE

V . Evolution (Insertion)

A. Pilot initiates final approach to the insertion site, slows decent and stabilizes the Short-hauler(s)/load on the line.

B. Short-hauler(s) may assist pilot by calling out distance above the canopy and will assist pilot by calling out distance above the ground. Short-hauler(s) should also point out any hazards in the area to the pilot. All Short-hauler radio traffic must be concise.

• When applicable short-hauler will indicate load

“entering canopy”.

•

Height above ground will then be delineated by calling out “five zero, four zero, three zero, two zero, one zero, eye level” . Pilot acknowledges “ five zero ” at the start of count and then is silent. When the short-hauler and weight bag are on the ground, and short-hauler is ready to unhook, state

“secure”

• When ready, the pilot will say "unhook" ; simultaneously, the spotter will give thee unhook signal. Short-hauler(s) unhooks and by radio tell(s) the pilot that they are clear of the rope by saying


C. If receiving an unattended external load, follow the standard height above ground call outs.

NOTES

Depending upon use, training may be broken into two scenarios: 1) short-hauler delivery and/or extraction; 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.

Pilot should provide time for short-haulers to stabilize and secure themselves before giving the command to disconnect from rope(s).

Highlight the unique risks associated with lifting HEC. Consider hazard identification and mitigation efforts.

OUTLINE

VI . Typical Terrain Training

A. Typical terrain should include fields, light timber, open canopy, rock outcropping, slope, etc.

B. Pilot and Spotter Duties

1. Reconnaissance flight – site evaluation, environmental parameters, etc.

2. Flight following (spotter can assist with navigation, watching for other aircraft, hazards, etc).

3. Pilot, spotter, and/or short-haulers will select a short-haul site.

5. Evaluate short-haul site for:

–proximity to incident/fire

-size

-slope

–rotor clearance

–wind conditions

–hazards (wires, snags, loose debris/gear, etc.)

–external load collision hazards

5. Complete hover check.

6. Select staging area to rig for short-haul.

C. Short-haul Team Duties (Insertion)

1. Pilot initiates final approach to the insertion site, slows decent and stabilizes the Short-hauler(s)/load on the line.

2. Short-hauler(s) may assist pilot by calling out distance above the canopy and will assist pilot by calling out distance above the ground. Short-hauler(s) should also point out any hazards in the area to the pilot. All Short-hauler radio traffic must be concise.

•

When applicable short-hauler will indicate load

“entering canopy”.

•

Height above ground will then be delineated by calling out “five zero, four zero, three zero, two zero, one zero, eye level” . Pilot acknowledges “ five zero

” at the start of count and then is silent. When the short-hauler and weight bag are on the ground, and short-hauler is ready to unhook, state “secure”

• When ready, the pilot will say "unhook" ; simultaneously, the spotter will give the unhook signal. Short-hauler(s) unhooks and by radio tell(s) the pilot that they are clear of the rope by saying


3. If receiving an unattended external load, follow the standard height above ground call outs.

NOTES

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 delivery and/or patient extraction.

Refer to EMSHOP, 4.2.4

Employ solid risk management decision processes. The GAR can be done at any time during this operation.

Highlight the unique risks associated with lifting HEC. Consider hazard identification and mitigation efforts.

Refer to EMSHOP, 4

OUTLINE

D. Short-Haul Team Duties (Extraction)

1. Pilot initiates final approach to the insertion site, slows decent and stabilizes the Short-hauler(s)/load on the line.






Short-hauler relays

•

Winds

• Environmental

• Weights

• Configuration i.e. “Two short-haulers and Bauman bag”

• States, “

Ready to receive

.”

• Response from helicopter to ground crew “ inbound ”.

2. Short-hauler(s) may assist pilot by calling out distance above the canopy and will assist pilot by calling out distance above the ground. Short-hauler(s) should also point out any hazards in the area to the pilot. All Short-hauler radio traffic must be concise.



When applicable short-hauler will indicate load

“ entering canopy

”.




“ five zero, four zero, three zero, two zero, one zero, eye level ”.

 Pilot acknowledges “ five zero

” at the start of count and then is silent.



When the short-hauler has control of the line, the pilot places the line ballast on the ground and the short-hauler communicates “ got it ”.



When ready, the Pilot radios short-hauler to “ hook up

” and


” simultaneously.




“ ready ” and gives the “ lift signal

”.

 Pilot states “ coming up

” and lifts short-hauler(s).

Short-hauler communicates “ clear ” and gives the “ clear of obstacles signal

” when clear for forward flight.

E. Emergency Procedures

1. Emergency Communications

2. Immediate Response Emergency

3. Delayed Response Emergency

4. Pilot, Spotter, Short-hauler response actions

Refer to EMSHOP, 4

NOTES

Refer to In-Flight Emergency Procedures EMSHOP, 5

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.

OUTLINE

F. Short-Haul Spotter Duties

1. Pre and post mission briefings between the pilot, shorthaulers and spotters are essential. Items to be identified in the briefing include



What is the mission



Where is the mission



Potential Hazards



What are alternative methods of extraction



Preflight and Inflight checks



Trigger points and GAR completion



Emergency procedures

2. Hazard and limitations: discuss hazards that could have an impact on short-haul operations. These include but are not limited to:



Weather



Environmental considerations (Smoke, visibility, snags, etc.)



Fire Behavior and LCES



Fire Traffic Area

3. Mission limitations: discuss the effects the following can have on mission success:



Aircraft Performance – Altitude, Temperature, payload, CG, fuels load, etc.



Crew limitations – fatigue, mission driven sense of urgency, undue pressure, etc.

4. Risk Management as it relates to the short-haul and medical extraction mission:



Identify Hazards (Situation Awareness)



Assess Hazards



Develop controls and make risk decisions



Implement controls



Supervise, communicate, and Evaluate



AAR

5. Communications:



Pilot and Spotter



Spotter and short-hauler hand signals



Fire, FTA and flight follow radio communications



Operational/Medical communications

6. Spotter ensures that all documentation and training records are completed in a timely and accurate manner

7. Emergency Procedures: Challenge and response is a necessary part of communication for effective emergency procedures



Immediate response category



Delayed response category

NOTES

Discuss role of Spotter and Pilot for the operations, tasks, and CRM considerations

Utilize the FS Short-haul GAR worksheet and the risk management process.

Highlight proper weight and balance, manifest, and load calc computations. management process and subsequent mitigations.

Refer to IRPG, page 1

Refer to equipment inspection and training records on EMSHOP appendices.

Refer to In-Flight Emergency Procedures EMSHOP, 5

S HORT H AUL T RAINING

Table of Contents

- Program History and Overview 1

- Crew Resource Management (CRM) 3

- Field Training 4

Step by Step Orientation 4

Lift Training with Hoist 5

Live Helicopter Evolution Training 5

Typical Terrain Training 7

Short-Haul Team Duties (Insertion) 7

Short-Haul Team Duties (Extraction) 8

4- Responsibilities 11

APPENDIX B: S HORT -H AUL T RAINING S YLLABUS 2015

Objectives

Unit 1 – Program Orientation and Overview

Provide students and pilots with a general overview of short-haul program and policy.

Time Frame 3 to 5 hours

Training Aids Training PowerPoint, Flip chart, FS EMSHOP , Local Helibase Operations and Aviation

Plans,

DOI Aviation Life Support Equipment Handbook (ALSE), Interagency

Lesson Outline

I.

Program History and Overview

A.

DOI

B.

FS

II.

Review Agency Policy and Guidelines

A.

Review EMSHOP

B.

Mission Specific

1.

New Programs

2.

Pilot Requirements

3.

Training Requirements

4.

Check Spotter

5.

Spotter

6.

Short-Hauler

7.

EMT

8.

Annual Recertification

9.

Proficiency Requirements

10.

Operational Requirements

11.

Load Calculations

12.

Flight Restrictions

13.

Mission Briefing

14.

Risk Assessment

15.

Equipment Checks

16.

Duties



Pilot



Check Spotter



Spotter



Short-hauler



EMT

III.

Equipment Orientation

A.

Personnel Equipment (PPE)

Key Points

Demo SH

Video and Intro.ppt

EMSHOP, Ch.

1.5 & 2, reference plan handout

Refer to

NEMSHWT briefs in

Appendix G

Discuss

Appendix C training sheets

GAR and Prog.

Risk highlight

EMSHOP, Ch. 4

& 5 brief – more detail later

EMSHOP, Ch. 4

& 5 brief –

Lesson Outline

1.

Clothing

2.

Helmet

3.

Harness

4.

Tether Attachment



Knife



Carabiner



Attendant Ring

B.

Secondary Release System

1.

Release System Function

2.

Rating Specifications

3.

Installation Procedures/Toolkit

4.

Inspection Requirements

C.

Short-Haul Line and Equipment

1.

Hardware (carabiners, steel rings, specs and care)



Material construction and requirements






Care during use



Cleaning



Storage



Retirement



Documentation Protocols

2.

Software (Ropes, Harness, Tether, Ballast, Bauman Bag, Screamer

Suit)



Construction and requirements



Inspection (pre and post flight)



Care during use



Cleaning



Storage



Retirement



Documentation protocols

IV.

Communications

A.

Radio/Patch Cord

B.

Hand Signals

V.

Safety and Emergency Procedures

A.

Hazards and Problems

B.

In-flight Emergencies

1.

Communications and categories

2.

Pilot/Spotter Actions

3.

Short-hauler considerations

C.

Environmental Considerations

1.

Weather

2.

Fire Behavior – LCES

3.

All Hazard Incidents

Key Points more detail later

Equip.ppt

(Equipment to be on display in training room)

EMSHOP,

Appendix H discussion

EMSHOP, Ch. 3

Appendix C,

Inspection

Forms

Continue general equipment familiarization

EMSHOP, Ch. 4

HandSignal.ppt and/or Video

(Demonstrate

& Practice)

Lesson Outline

VI.

Documentation

A.

Training and Qualifications

B.

Operational Short-haul

C.

Training Short-haul

D.

Case Incident Reports

E.

SAFECOM/Mishaps

F.

AAR’s/FLA’s

G.

Equipment Tracking

Key Points

EMSHOP, Ch. 5

(Risks of SH mission)

In-flight

Emerg.ppt

ESMHOP, Ch. 6

Appendix C –

Training Sheets

& Records

Appendix - ?

Short-Haul

Event Report

Unit ll – Crew Resource Management (CRM)

Objectives Provide all short-haul participants with a refresher of crew resource management principles as it applies to the short-haul mission.


Training Aids Flip chart, CRM PowerPoint, Lessoned Learned Document, FSM 5709.16, Ch. 20 .

Lesson Outline

I.

CRM Basics

II.

Human Factors a.

Five Hazardous Attitudes b.

Risk Aversion/tolerance c.

Cognitive perception (change blindness, illusion, etc.) d.

Physical factors (Fatigue, prescription drugs, etc.)

III.

Review 7 Critical Skills of CRM a.

Decision Making b.

Assertiveness c.

Mission Analysis d.

Communication e.

Leadership f.

Adaptability (flexibility) g.

Situation Awareness

IV.

GAR Risk Assessment

V.

Lessons Learned Case Study a.

ex. Kelley Fire and/or Freeze Out b.

Other FLA’s

Key Points

CRM ppt

(Discuss human factors, risk, & critical skills of CRM)

EMSHOP,

Appendix F

Lesson Outline

VI.

FAM Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Handbook

Key Points

Discussion

Unit III: Field Training

Objectives Train and qualify students in safe short-haul procedures and operations.


Training Aids Helicopter, hoist, raised platform/hard-point, ground markers, PPE, and typical terrain .

Lesson Outline

VII.

Step by Step Orientation Ground Mockup with Helicopter

A.

Helicopter Configuration and Equipment



Pilot briefing of Aircraft





Doors removed and secured



Rigging equipment and rope

Loose equipment removed and secured



Radio frequency established



Radio check with pilot and personnel



Understanding of mission and roles

B.

Buddy Checks - Short-haul PPE inspections



Flight Helmet



Eye Protection



Fire resistant clothing/boots



Gloves



Harness



Personal tethers



Knife



Radio

Key Points

EMSHOP, Ch. 4

EMSHOP,

Appendix H

(Install & test secondary release, rigging equip, & do comm check)

ESMHOP, Ch.

4.4 – 4.6

Buddy Video

(Demonstrate equipment fit, adjustment,

Lesson Outline



Thumbs up

C.

Short-haul Equipment



Screamer Suit/tether



Bauman bag



Haul Bags/tether

D.

Communications



Hand Signals



Radio Calls

E.

Insertion and Extraction Procedures

VIII.

Lift Training with Hoist (Begin evaluation with Appendix C training sheets)

A.

Buddy Check – personnel form pairs

B.

Students are raised 4 feet off ground and set down

C.

Practice use of hand signals and radio communication

D.

Bauman bag/screamer suit/haul bag rigging

E.

Emergency Procedures

F.

Simulation (Extraction)








Short-hauler relays



Environmental



Winds

Weights



Configuration i.e. “Two short-haulers and Bauman bag”



States, “ Ready to receive .”



Response from helicopter to ground crew “ inbound ”.



Short-hauler(s) will assist pilot by calling out distance above ground. Short-hauler(s) should also point out any hazards to pilot. All short-hauler radio traffic must be concise.



Heights above ground will be delineated by calling “five zero, four zero, three zero, two zero, one zero, eye level” . Note:

Pilot will acknowledge “five zero” at the start of count and then is silent.

Key Points use, buddy & spotter checks,

& attachment points)

(Demonstrate use & loading procedures of screamer, bauman, & haul bags)

ESMSHOP, Ch.

4.7 – 4.8

(Demonstrate hand signals and radio calls)

EMSHOP,

Appendix A,

(Refer to stages in training outline)

EMSHOP,

Appendix A,

(Refer to stages in training outline)

Lesson Outline



When the short-hauler has control of the line, the pilot places the line ballast on the ground and the short-hauler communicates “got it” .



When ready, the Pilot radios short-hauler to “hook up” and

Spotter gives the “hook signal” simultaneously.



Once hooked in, the short-hauler communicates “ready” and gives the “ lift signal ”.



Pilot states “coming up” and lifts short-hauler(s). Shorthauler communicates “clear” and gives the “clear of obstacles signal” when clear for forward flight.

IX.

Live Helicopter Evolution Training

A. Complete evolution flights with helicopter

B. Short-hauler duties (preparation for short-haul insertion/extraction)

• Aircraft lifts to hover until rope is off the ground and pilot

 makes a traffic pattern. When ready pilot initiates communication and confirms radio comms and environmentalparameters with short-haulers.



Short-hauler(s) will assist pilot by calling out distance above ground. Short-hauler(s) should also point out any hazards to pilot. All short-hauler radio traffic must be concise.



Heights above ground will be delineated by calling “five zero, four zero, three zero, two zero, one zero, eye level” . Note:

Pilot will acknowledge “five zero” at the start of count and then is silent.










Once hooked in, the short-hauler communicates “ready” and gives the “ lift signal ”.



Pilot states “coming up” and lifts short-hauler(s). Shorthauler communicates “clear” and gives the “clear of obstacles signal”

• when clear for forward flight.

X.

In Flight Considerations

• Short-haul rope will not be flown un-weighted in order to prevent excessive trailing behind the aircraft in forward flight.

Forward flight should not exceed 50 knots with the Short-haul line deployed.

• In flight spinning or position changes can be prevented by extending an arm or a leg.

• Radio communication quality is best if the helmet boom mic is flush against the lips and cupped by hand and the head is

Key Points

EMSHOP,

Appendix A

EMSHOP,

Appendix A

EMSHOP, Ch. 4

Lesson Outline turned away from the wind.

• If, at any time during the transport or ferry portion of the shorthaul insertion or extraction, radio communications are lost or become inadequate, the pilot and spotter may decide to return to the staging site.

• If the short-hauler(s) lose communication or wish to terminate the mission, initiate the wave-off hand signal.

Key Points

Lesson Outline

XI.

Evolution (Insertion) a.

Pilot initiates final approach to the insertion site, slows decent and stabilizes the Short-hauler(s)/load on the line.

b.

Short-hauler(s) may assist pilot by calling out distance above the canopy and will assist pilot by calling out distance above the ground.

Short-hauler(s) should also point out any hazards in the area to the pilot. All Short-hauler radio traffic must be concise.



When applicable short-hauler will indicate load “entering canopy”.




“five zero, four zero, three zero, two zero, one zero, eye level” . Pilot acknowledges “five zero” at the start of count and then is silent. When the short-hauler and line ballast are on the ground, and short-hauler is ready to unhook, state



“secure”.

When ready, the pilot will say "unhook" ; simultaneously, the spotter will give the unhook signal. Short-hauler(s) unhooks and by radio tell(s) the pilot that they are clear of the rope by saying "clear” and gives the lift signal. c.

If receiving an unattended external load, follow the direction found previously in B.

Key Points

EMSHOP,

Appendix F

EMSHOP, Ch. 4

Lesson Outline Key Points

XII.

Typical Terrain

A.

Typical terrain should include fields, light timber, open canopy, rock out cropping, slope, etc.

B.

Pilot and Spotter Duties

1.

Reconnaissance flight – site evaluation, environmental parameters, etc.

2.

Flight following (spotter can assist with navigation, watching for other aircraft, hazards, etc).

3.

Pilot, spotter, and/or short-haulers will select a short-haul site.

4.

Evaluate short-haul site for:

 proximity to incident/fire

 size

 slope

 rotor clearance

 wind conditions

 hazards (wires, snags, loose debris/gear, etc.)

 external load collision hazards

5.

Complete hover out of ground power check

6.

Select staging area to rig for short-haul

C.

Short-haul Team Duties (Insertion)

1.

Pilot initiates final approach to the insertion site, slows decent and

stabilizes the Short-hauler(s)/load on the line.

2.





When applicable short-hauler will indicate load “ entering canopy ”.





Pilot acknowledges “five zero” at the start of count and then is silent. When the short-hauler and line ballast are on the ground, and short-hauler is ready to unhook, state

“ secure ”



When ready, the pilot will say " unhook "; simultaneously, the spotter will give the unhook signal. Short-hauler(s) unhooks and by radio tell(s) the pilot that they are clear of the rope by saying " clear ” and gives the lift signal.

EMSHOP, Ch. 4

MSHOP, Ch.

5EMSHOP, Ch.

4 & 5

(SH spotter and pilot discuss peration, tasks, and CRM procedures)

Appendix F,

GAR Risk

Assessment,

IAP, weather forecast

Refer to IRPG

EMSHOP, Ch. 5

Lesson Outline

3.

If receiving an unattended external load, follow the direction found previously in #2.

D.

Short-Haul Team Duties (Extraction)

1.

Pilot initiates final approach to the extraction site, slows decent and stabilizes the line.






Short-hauler relays

• Winds

• Environmental

• Weights

• Configuration i.e. “Two short-haulers and

Bauman bag”

• States, “ Ready to receive .”

• Response from helicopter to ground crew

“ inbound ”.

2.





When applicable short-hauler will indicate load “ entering canopy ”.





Pilot acknowledges “ five zero ” at the start of count and then is silent.











“ready” and gives the “ lift signal ”.



Pilot states “coming up” and lifts short-hauler(s). Shorthauler communicates “clear” and gives the “clear of obstacles signal”

Key Points

Lesson Outline when clear for forward flight.

E.


1.

Emergency Communications

2.

Immediate Response Emergency

3.

Delayed Response Emergency

4.

Pilot, Spotter, Short-hauler response actions

F.

Short-Haul Spotter Duties

1.

Pre and post mission briefings between the pilot, shorthaulers and spotters are essential. Items to be identified in the briefing include:



What is the mission



Where is the mission



Potential Hazards



What are alternative methods of extraction



Preflight and Inflight checks



Trigger points and GAR completion



Emergency procedures

2.

Hazard and limitations: discuss hazards that could have an impact on short-haul operations. These include but are not limited to:



Weather



Environmental considerations (Smoke, visibility, snags, etc.)





Fire Behavior and LCES

Fire Traffic Area

3.

Mission limitations: discuss the effects the following can have on mission success:



Aircraft Performance – Altitude, Temperature, payload,



CG, fuels load, etc.

Crew limitations – fatigue, mission driven sense of urgency, undue pressure, etc.

Key Points

4.

Risk Management as it relates to the short-haul and medical extraction mission:



Identify Hazards (Situation Awareness)



Assess Hazards



Develop controls and make risk decisions



Implement controls

Lesson Outline



Supervise and evaluate



AAR

5.

Communications:



Pilot and Spotter



Spotter and short-hauler hand signals



Fire, FTA and flight follow radio communications



Operational/Medical communications

6.

Spotter ensures that all documentation and training records

are completed in a timely and accurate manner.

7.

Emergency Procedures: Challenge and response is a necessary part of communication for effective emergency procedures:



Immediate response category



Delayed response category

Key Points

Lesson Outline

This page is intentional left unpopulated

Key Points

RESPONSIBILITIES

Check Spotters ensure proficiency is obtained by each trainee short-hauler and spotter prior to moving them to the next stage or certification of training.

Spotters (Lead Trainers) ensure standardization at all levels of training and follow training syllabus.

Equipment Manager(s) ensure the adequate amount of equipment is available to support short-haul operations and supervise inspections to ensure all short-haul equipment is properly inspected and use reports are completed.

Short-hauler Records Lead ensures all short-hauls are properly documented on a short-haul report card through coordination with squad leaders.

Squad Leaders are accountable for tracking short-hauler progression through all stages of training, coordinating with instructors, and squad wellness. They are also responsible for aiding short-haulers in completing individual report cards.

Demo Short-haulers shall receive a briefing prior to demonstration by instructors. They are responsible for demonstrating short-hauler procedures through each stage of training.

Pilots ensure aircraft preparedness, understand training objectives, and provide feedback to training cadre.

APPENDIX C: C ONSOLIDATED S HORT HAUL T RAINING P LAN

General

The National Rappel Program has demonstrated that a National Consolidated Training model is an effective and efficient way to provide quality aviation training to large groups of individuals from several Regions.

Consolidated training promotes standardization of procedures, equipment, and increases quality assurance, while promoting efficiency inside the whole program. Consolidated training provides individuals with high quality instruction from the most qualified individuals within the national program. It also promotes networking between individual programs which can foster cultures associated with crew cohesion and highly reliable organizations.

Train the Trainer

During the 2014-15 field season, Forest Service NSHOS participants will be evaluating and learning from the

•

•

•

•

• following programs:

• Mt. Rainer National Park (MORA)

Yellowstone National Park (YELL)

Denali National Park (DENA)

Grand Canyon National Park (GRCA)

Grand Teton National Park (GRTE)

Yosemite National Park (YOSE)

•

•

•

Zion National Park (ZION)

HIP Pilot Evaluation Trainings

Forest Service Region 5 LEI

Contracted SME sources: TBD

The following Cadre members are recommended to form the initial group of subject matter experts for developing the consolidated training program. A combination of these individuals will review and evaluate the aforementioned programs and report back to the NEMSHWT and/or NSHOS. Consider that the National

Park Service and Forest Service have distinct missions for short-haul. Forest Service employees are directed to conduct mission’s specific to the intent of the National Short-Haul Specialist and the EMSHOP. FS shorthaulers are not approved for the high angle, mountaineering/climbing, swift-water, and snow environments and are to adhere to Agency specific mission and related training. The following representatives may participate in the Forest Service Consolidated short-haul trainings:

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

National Short-Haul Specialist

NSHOS Voting Member(s) and/ or HOS

Training group SME

Equipment group SME

Helicopter Inspector Pilot

NPS Short-Haul Program Representative

Medical group SME

Safety/SMS/Risk Assessment SME

National Short-haul Training Cadre

The National Short-Haul Training Cadre (NSHTC) should be comprised of individuals from different

Regions and bases, with check spotters included as the primary cadre leaders. The NSHS position will provide oversight to the National Short-Haul Training Cadre. Cadre selections would be finalized by January allowing program manager’s sufficient time to plan and coordinate training sessions and travel accordingly.

This type of an approach to the National Short-Haul Training Cadre should facilitate the direction as outlined in Section

The NSHS shall:

•

Develop expectations for each cadre and support position.

•

Complete an Action Plan for the development of the NSHTC.

•

Create a formal letter that is sent out to internals that introduce the training cadre and plan.

National Short-Haul Training Team

One key component of consolidated training is staffing key ICS positions to plan and coordinate logistics and training sessions. As the program develops, the ICS structure will adapt to specific needs and opportunities and additional positions will be adjusted as needed. Future start up program individuals can act in the following positions to be exposed to the training format.

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

The training academy may be comprised of the following positions:

• Incident Commander

Safety Officer

Logistics

Planning

Operations

Helibase Manager

ABRO

Equipment SME

Medical SME

For these 2015 positions in Missoula consider assistance from: R1 Exclusive Use Programs and R1 Aviation

Branch and additional programs and sources.

All positions can be staffed by veteran short-haulers or individuals with expertise and qualification for the position. Short-Haul trainees and cadre members will not hold any collateral role or duty in the listed ICS functions.

Training Sessions

2015 Training:

Bases:

Location:

Training Dates:

Wenatchee and Teton

Missoula, MT

Train the Trainer (Spotters) April 27-May 01

Consolidated Training (Crews) May 18-22

Future consolidated training will be combined initial training and annual re-currency training. Locations

TBD.

Initial and Re-currency Short-Haul Training

With the anticipated startup of two programs in 2015 the estimated number of short-hauler’s and spotters could be up to 30 individuals.

Initial short-haul and spotter training will consist of the following format topics:

• Program Overview and Policy

• Ground school and equipment orientation

• Communications

• Aviation flight dynamics

• Safety (SMS, and Risk Assessment, etc.)

• Emergency procedures

• Documentation

• Crew Resource Management

• Field Training/Helicopter and equipment orientation

• Equipment and aircraft configuration

• Spotter responsibilities

• Short-haul responsibilities

• Ground Mockups

• Static Suspension

• Lift Training

• Evolution Training

• Typical Terrain Training

• Mission Specific Training (Patient packaging)

• AAR/CISD Formats and sources (pre and post incident)

Helicopters would be coordinated between the NSHS, short-haul base managers and Regional HOS for each training session.

Consolidated Short-Haul Training

To conduct consolidated short-haul training an indoor classroom and Helibase and with proximity to typical terrain is required. Consider a mechanical device to simulate static training for rigging and lifting (e.g. boom crane, block and tackle pulley system, winch, etc.). Considerations for a location include:

• A training room large enough to accommodate the necessary number of cadre and trainees.

• An operations room that facilitates all the helibase requirements associated with consolidated short-haul training. Computer, PowerPoint projector and screen needed.

• Additional conference/meeting room for accommodating additional group needs (HIP, QA, and HOS’s)

• Pre-established logistical requirements (Cache Orders, Food Vendors)

• Helibase is large enough to accommodate the necessary number of aircraft.

• Pre-identified typical terrain short-haul sites

• Fall 2014 – National Short-haul Operations Subcommittee and SMEs will finalize training format after evaluation visits.

• Spring 2015 – Forest Service Short-Haul Consolidated Training.

All dates are tentative at this time and may change due to; training conflicts, aircraft contract MAPs, weather, and number of individuals needing trained.

APPENDIX D: D OCUMENTATION

Individual Short-Haul Record – Initial/Annual Short-Haul Training

Short-Hauler Training Record Initial/Annual Certification Short-Hauler

Training

Name: Location Date:

Page 1

Refer to training elements in the Forest Service Short-Haul Operations Guide. The instructor must sign off as individual completes each step.

1.

Short-Haul Equipment Use and Inspection.

The individual will demonstrate proper use and care of equipment.

Task Comments

1.

Helmet

2.

Eye Protection

3.

Fire Resistant Clothing

4.

Knife

5.

Radio

6.

Harness

7.

Gloves

8.

Boots

9.

Haul bag

10.

Tethers

11.

Carabineers

12.

Communications

13.

Haul Line/Ballast

14.

Bauman Bag/Screamer Suit

15.

Secondary Release

The individual has demonstrated the proper use and care of short-haul equipment. The individual is ready to progress to Buddy Checks.

Instructor Signature Date


Training

Location

Page 2

Name: Date:


1.

Buddy Checks

The individual will demonstrate proper use of short-haul equipment and proper Buddy Check.

Task Comments

1.

Helmet

2.

Eye Protections

3.


4.

Knife

5.

Radio

6.

Harness

7.

Gloves

8.

Boots

9.

Haul Bag/Attachment

10.

Tethers

11.

Carabineers

12.

Communications

13.

Error Free Buddy Check

14.

Attentiveness to Buddy




Training

Location

Page 3

Name: Date:


1.

Lift and Evolution Training

The individual will demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between short-haul equipment and proficiency with procedures. Two live evolutions are required without procedural error for Initial

Certification and Annual Recertification.

Task Comments

1.

Equipment Inspection

2.

Buddy Check

3.

Equipment Care

4.

Proper Communications

5.

Proper Hand Signals

6.

Hook-up Procedures

7.

In-flight Procedures

8.

Landing Procedures

9.

Un-hooking Procedure

10.

Ground/Equipment Handling

11.


12.

Equipment Storage/Care

13.

Proper Documentation

14.

Attentiveness to Spotter




Training

Location

Page 4

Name: Date:


1.

Typical Terrain

The individual will demonstrate short-haul typical terrain operational procedures. Two typical terrain shorthauls are required to be completed without procedural error for Initial Certification and one for Annual

Certification.

Task r Comments

1.


2.

Buddy Check

3.

Equipment Care

4.


5.

Proper Hand Signals

6.

Hook-up Procedures

7.


8.

Landing Procedures

9.

Un-hooking Procedures

10.


11.


12.


13.


14.

Attentiveness to Spotter



Individual Spotter Record – Initial/Annual Short-Haul Training

Short-Haul Spotter Training Record Initial/Annual Certification Spotter

Training

Page 1


Refer to training elements in the Forest Service Emergency Medical Short-Haul Operations Plan. The instructor must sign off as individual completes each step.

1.

Short-Haul Equipment Use and Inspection.

The individual will demonstrate proper use and care of equipment.

Task Comments

1.

Helmet

2.

Eye Protection

3.


4.

Knife

5.

Radio

6.

Harness

7.

Gloves

8.

Boots

9.

Haul bag

10.

Tethers

11.

Carabineers

12.

Communications

13.

Haul Line/Ballast

14.

Bauman Bag/Screamer Suit

15.

Secondary Release Rigging



Short-Haul Spotter Training Record Initial/Annual Certification Spotter Training


Page 2


1.

Buddy Checks

The individual will demonstrate proper use of short-haul equipment and proper Buddy Check.

Task Comments

1.

Helmet

2.

Eye Protections

3.


4.

Knife

5.

Radio

6.

Harness

7.

Gloves

8.

Boots

9.

Haul Bag/Attachment

10.

Tethers

11.

Carabineers

12.

Communications

13.

Error Free Buddy Check

14.

Attentiveness to Buddy





Page 3


1.

Lift and Evolution Training

The individual will demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between short-haul equipment and proficiency with procedures. Four live evolutions are required without procedural error for Initial

Certification and two for Annual Recertification.

Task Comments

1.


2.

Buddy Check

3.

Equipment Care

4.


5.

Proper Hand Signals

6.

Hook-up Procedures

7.


8.

Landing Procedures

9.

Un-hooking Procedure

10.


11.


12.


13.


14.

Attentiveness to Pilot and

Short-hauler

15.

Final inspection of secondary release system before flight.





Page 4


1.

Typical Terrain

The individual will demonstrate short-haul typical terrain operational procedures. Two typical terrain shorthauls are required to be completed without procedural error for Initial Certification and one for Annual

Certification.

Task Comments

1.


2.

Buddy Check

3.

Equipment Care

4.


5.

Proper Hand Signals

6.

Hook-up Procedures

7.


8.

Landing Procedures

9.

Un-hooking Procedures

10.


11.


12.


13.


14.

Attentiveness to Pilot and

Short-Hauler.



/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

Form C-1 – Bauman Bag Log

ID#:__________ Date of Manufacture:__________ Date Put Into Service:__________ Date

Retired:__________

Inspector Signature Remarks/Problems Inspection

Date

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

Form C-2 – Bauman Screamer Suit Log

Bauman Screamer Suit ID#:__________ Date of Manufacture:__________

Date Put Into Service:__________ Date Retired:__________

Primary Tether ID#:__________ Date of Manufacture:__________

Date Put Into Service:__________ Date Retired:__________

Secondary Tether ID#:__________ Date of Manufacture:__________ Date Put Into Service:__________

Inspection

Date

Inspector Signature

Date Retired:__________

Remarks/Problems

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

Form C-3 – Spotter/Short-Hauler Harness Log

Issued To:__________

Harness ID#:__________ Date of Manufacture:__________ Date Put Into Service:__________ Date

Retired:__________

Primary Tether ID#:__________ Date of Manufacture:__________ Date Put Into Service:__________ Date

Retired:__________

Secondary Tether ID#:__________ Date of Manufacture:__________ Date Put Into Service:__________


Inspection Inspector Signature Remarks/Problems

Date

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

Form C-4 – Short-haul Line Log

ID#:__________ Length:__________ Date of Manufacture:__________ Date Put Into Service:__________


Inspection

Date

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

Inspector Signature Remarks/Problems

Form C-5 – Secondary Release Log

ID#:__________ Date of Manufacture:__________ Date Put Into Service:__________ Date

Retired:__________

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

Inspection Date

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

Inspector Signature

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

Remarks/Problems

Form C-6 – Short-haul Unit Log

ID#:__________ Calendar Year:__________

Previous Operational Short-Hauls:__________ Previous Short-Hauls Other:__________

Total Short-Hauls:__________

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

Date Incident Location Purpose A/C # Pilot Spotter Short-

Hauler (s)

Remark s

APPENDIX E: E QUIPMENT S OURCE L IST

Picture of Item Description and Equipment Source List

Short Haul Lines, 100’, 150’ and 250’

1) Priority 1 Air Rescue 250’ Dyneema Short -

Haul Lines with thimbles and map rings at each end. One line each for Operations, Training and

Back-up. Item # A5D-185r-250

2) Priority 1 Air Rescue 150’ Dyneema Short-

Haul Lines with thimbles and map rings at each end. One line each for Operations and Back up.

Item # A5D-185R-150

3) Priority 1 Air Rescue 100’ Dyneema Short-

Haul Lines with thimbles and map rings at each end. One line each for Operations and Back-up.

Item # A5D-185R-100

Procurement Source:

Priority 1 Air Rescue , www.priority1airrescue.com

Line Ballast

ARS (Air Rescue Systems) 25 pound Line

Ballast System, three per program.


Air Rescue Systems (ARS), www.airrescuesystems.com

Short-Haul Secondary Release

Air Rescue Systems (ARS), A-Star B2/B3

Hard Point Heli-Bridle System


Air Rescue Systems, www.airrescuesystems.com


Carabiners

(10) 72 kN ½” Steel Large D 3-Stage Quik-Lok

Gold, NFPA Omega Pacific



Model # 5105

Gemtor Model #5105 two-stage auto-locking carabiner with captive pin option. Gate strength: 3600 lbs meeting ANSI Z359.12.

Tensile strength: 10,000 lbs.


Gemtor, http://gemtor.com/rescue.htm#carabiners

Attendent Ring

Bourdon Forge 2004-1 3” forged steel ring.

(copy of Foregecraft FC5011)


DJ Associates, http://catalog.djassociates.com/item/military-hardware/roundrings/2004-1

Or

Bourdon Forge, www.bourdonforge.com

Spotter/Short-Haul Harness

388-Yates Heli-Ops Harness. UL classified to meet NFPA 1983/2012 edition standards.

Procurement Source,

Yates Gear, www.yatesgear.com


Primary Tether Attachment

Metolius Ultimate Daisy. Each loop is rated to

22 kN (4950 lbf), eliminating the pocket failure of traditional daisies. CE/UIAA Sling Standard

11 mm (0.43”) Monster sling webbing. Length

114 cm (45”), strength 22 kN (4950 lbf).

CE/UIAA Certified.

Procurement Source

Metolius Climbing, www.metoliusclimbing.com

Spotter Tether or Connection Point

**Currently awaiting testing from MTDC on

Air Rescue Systems (ARS) equipment piece. If testing is positive, program will forgo a ‘tether’ and spotter will connect directly to the

‘anchor’.



Spotter Tether Attachment


John Day Air Base,

730 Airport Rd, John Day OR 97845

10mm Maillon Rapide Delta tri-links

(Two per Bauman Bag)

Procurement Source:

High Angle Associates www.techrescue.biz


Bauman Bag

(2) Bauman Short-Haul Bag. Item # 728002


CMC Rescue, www.cmcrescue.com

Bauman Screamer Suit

(2) Bauman Screamer Suits


CMC Rescue, www.cmcrescue.com

Patch Cords

HCC-A5B-C00 Cord Adapter from U-94 to

Bendix-King Coiled.


Gibson-Barnes www.gibson-barnes.com/prod-

294212/Adapter-For_Bendixking-portableradio.html#

Rescue Randy

Item # 9000


SIMULAIDS Rescue Randy , www.lifesaving.com

Knife, Harness attached

Gerber Vital Zip


Gerber , www.gerbergear.com


Haul Bag

‘El Cap’ SKU# ELCA001

37” x 18”, 9600 cubic inches, 8 lbs


Metolius , www.metoliusclimbing.com

Haul Bag

‘Quarter Dome’ SKU# QUAR001

27” x 16” x 10”, 4600 cubic inches, 5 lbs 1 oz



Haul Bag

‘Express’ SKU# EXPR001

21.5”x 15” x 9”, 2380 cubic inches, 2 lbs 10 oz



Yates 2’ Extra HD Anchor Runner

2 ft. fixed length Screamer Suit Tether


Yates , www.yatesgear.com

APPENDIX F: E MERGENCY M EDICAL S HORT -H AUL O PERATIONS R EVIEW

C

HECKLIST

Emergency Medical

Short-Haul Operations Review

Checklist

Base:

Inspection Date:

I.

Introduction : The national aviation office in conjunction with regional representation will conduct an evaluation of helicopter Emergency Medical Short-Haul Programs as part of the 2014 Emergency

Medical Short-Haul Quality Assurance (QA) Plan as outlined in the Short-Haul Program Strategic Risk

Assessment Action Plan Response. All short-haul programs should have adequate time, as acknowledged by the evaluators, to respond to the evaluation deficiency and to identify corrective action planned or already taken.

II.

Purpose: The purpose of the Emergency Medical Short-Haul QA review is to ensure that all Forest

Service Short-Haul Programs are meeting the intent of the national standardization effort, abiding by the

Emergency Medical Short-haul Operations Plan (EMSHOP) and providing a Quality Assurance Program.

This information will also be utilized to provide a detailed report to the National Aviation staff to ensure the Quality Assurance Program is progressive, appropriate and consistent with the mission.

III.

Applicability: The format contained in the Emergency Medical Short-Haul Operations Checklist was developed by the National Short-Haul Operations Sub-Committee (NSHOS) with oversight provided by the National Short-Haul Specialist (NSHS). This document may be revised or updated as needed or applicable.

IV.

The following items may be needed for the QA review .

Helibase Operations Plan

Unit Aviation Plan

Most Recent Copy of Base Review

Short-Haul Equipment Records

Spotter/Short-Haul Records

Emergency Medical Short- Haul

Operations Plan (EMSHOP)

Aircraft

V.

Team composition: The operation QA review team will consist of the National Short-Haul Specialist

(NSHS), and designated short-haul check spotter(s). The following positions may be utilized to conduct reviews; Aviation Maintenance Inspector (AMI), Helicopter Inspector Pilot (HIP), National Helicopter

Operations Specialist (NHOS), Regional Helicopter Operations Specialist (RHOS), and Safety and

Training Specialist (S&TS).

*All attempts should be made to fill the RHOS, AMI, HIP and Check Spotter from outside the geographical area.

VI.

Responsibility and Instruction for Completion: Aviation management at the national level is responsible for conducting the evaluation. Annual reviews are recommended until such time as evaluation time frames are established. The crew should b be allowed a minimum of one week to prepare for the review.

Completion of individual items is self-explanatory. The following is recommended as an overall approach:



The Short-Haul Base Manager should utilize the evaluation checklist to prepare for the visit by the team. It can also be used as a means of self-evaluation throughout the season.



In order to cover the functional area in a reasonable amount of time, it is recommended that each member of the evaluation team cover a separate section of the functional area, with others on the team concurrently completing their assigned area.



A closeout with local Line Officers, Regional Aviation members, and local fire management to review both deficiencies and positive aspects of the program is essential. A copy of the

Emergency Medical Short-haul Operations Review Checklist will be provided to the RAO,

RHOS and local Line Officer.



A formal follow-up should be made to ensure corrective action has been taken to rectify deficiencies.

VII.

Routing and Filing: Formal submission to the local line manager is essential; with follow-up reply from the local unit to ensure the corrective actions have been accomplished. Regional aviation management should keep past evaluations on file in order to ensure that items identified in previous visits have been addressed and are nonexistent in future evaluations.

EVALUATION TEAM MEMBERS

NAME AGENCY POSITION PHONE

FUNCTIONAL AREA N – SHORT-HAUL OPERATION

Base: Date of Review:

SHORT-HAUL CREW INFORMATION:

TOTAL NUMBER OF

QUALIFIED SHORT-

HAULERS AT BASE:

NUMBER OF VETERAN

SHORT-HAULERS:

NUMBER OF FIRST YEAR

SHORT-HAULERS:

NUMBER OF QUALIFIED

SPOTTERS:

NUMBER OF TRAINEE

SPOTTERS:

NUMBER OF QUALIFIED

EMTs:

REMARKS:

ANNUAL CRM TRAINING

COMPLETED BY ALL

SPOTTERS:

HOW ARE SPOTTER TRAINEE’S USED IN SHORT-HAUL OPERATIONS:

CHECK SPOTTER

AVAILABLE AT BASE:

CHECK SPOTTER

DESIGNATION ON FILE:

HOW OFTEN DOES A CHECK SPOTTER VISIT THE BASE:

NUMBER OF IC4’S: NUMBER OF IC5’S:

HIGHEST LINE QUAL OF CREW: HIGHEST AVIATION QUAL OF CREW:

NUMBER HELICOPTER MGRS: NUMBER OF MANAGER TRAINEES:

WHAT OBSTACLES IMPEDE THE EFFICIENT MANAGEMENT OF A SHORT-HAUL PROGRAM:

WHAT CAN BE DONE TO IMPROVE THE NATIONAL EMERGENCY MEDICAL SHORT-HAUL PROGRAM:

ITEM

# REMARKS

N-1

EVALUATION

CRITERIA

LAST

REVIEW

CODE

ADMINISTRATIVE

SHORT-HAUL AIRCRAFT a) PILOT CARDED FOR

LONGLINE AND

SHORT-HAUL

OPERATIONS:

SIGNED BY:

DATE: b) SHORT-HAUL PILOT

CERTIFICATION ON

FILE c) APPLICABLE

SHORT-HAUL STC

REQUIREMENTS MET d) HOW ARE WEIGHT

AND BALANCE

CALCULATIONS

COMPLETED FOR

SHORT-HAUL

OPERATIONS, HOW

OFTEN? e)

SPOTTER/MANAGERS

ARE AWARE OF

WEIGHT AND

N-2

N-3

BALANCE

PARAMETERS f)WHAT ARE THESE

PARAMETERS:

CARGO HOOK (BELLY HOOK) a)WHEN WAS CARGO

HOOK LAST

INSPECTED:

DATE: / / b)INSPECTION OF

CARGO HOOK

DOCUMENTED c)MAINTAINED IN

ACCORDANCE

W/MANUFACTURE’S

RECOMMENDATIONS a)KEEPERLESS HOOK

APPROVAL LETTER

ON BOARD AIRCRAFT

REMARKS

CODE KEY: E = EXCEEDS STANDARD M = MEETS STANDARD NI = NEEDS IMPROVEMENT NR = NOT REVIEWED

ITEM

#

EVALUATION

CRITERIA

LAST

REVIEW

CODE REMARKS

N-4 HELICOPTER / HELIBASE OPERATIONS AND UNIT

AVIATION PLANS a) UNIT AVIATION PLAN ADDRESSES

SHORT-HAUL OPERATIONS b) THE BASE OPERATIONS PLAN

ADDRESSES SHORT-HAUL OPERATIONS

N-5 THE FOLLOWING SHORT-HAUL REFERENCES ARE

AVAILABLE AT THE BASE: a) EMERGENCY MEDICAL SHORT-HAUL

OPERATIONS PLAN (EMSHOP) b) SAFETY ALERTS (related to Short-haul) c) INFORMATION BULLETINS PERTAINING

TO SHORT-HAUL FOR THE CALENDAR

YEAR

N-6 d)TECH TIPS FOR THE CURRENT CALENDAR

YEAR PERTAINING TO SHORT-HAUL

SAFETY AND TRAINING a) SHORT-HAUL HAZARDS/INCIDENTS

BEING PROPERLY DOCUMENTED AND

SUBMITTED USING SAFECOMS b) CA-1, SUBMITTED CONCERNING SHORT-

HAUL c) PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS FOR

SHORT-HAULLERS BEING MET PER EMSHOP d)HOW OFTEN ARE PROFICIENCIES BEING

CONDUCTED e) PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENS FOR

SPOTTERS BEING MET PER EMSHOP f) HOW ARE PROFICIENCIES BEING

TRACKED g) EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIANS

QUALIFICATIONS DOCUMENTED, WHERE?

HOW? h) GAR MODELS BEING COMPLETED FOR

SHORT-HAUL OPERATIONS i) HOW IS THE GAR MODEL BEING

DOCUMENTED

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:


ITEM

#

N-7

N-8

EVALUATION

CRITERIA

LAST

REVIEW

EQUIPMENT

SECONDARY RELEASE a)ANNUAL INSPECTION COMPLETE b)INSPECTION LOGS CURRENT/UP TO DATE: c)MEETS INSPECTION CRITERIA d)MEETS SERVICE LIFE LIMITATION (5 yr)

SHORT-HAUL LINE(S)

N-9 a) NUMBERED WITH UNIQUE ID b) MEETS MANUFACTURES INSPECTION CRITERIA c)INSPECTION LOGS CURRENT/UP-TO-DATE d)GENERAL CONDITION e) MEETS SERVICE LIFE LIMITATION (5 YR.)

SHORT-HAUL LINE BALLAST

N-10 a)MEETS 25# REQUIREMENT b)SECURED TO SHORT-HAUL LINE PER

MANUFACTURES INSTRUCTIONS c)GENERAL CONDITION

CARABINERS

N-11 a) APPROVED FOR SHORT-HAUL OPERATIONS b) WHEN ARE CARABINERS INSPECTED c)WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR INSPECTION d)WHAT CRITERIA IS USED TO INSPECT

CARABINERS e)WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR RETIRING

CARABINERS f)WHAT CRITERIA IS USED TO RETIRE A

CARABINER

HARNESS a)APPROVED FOR SHORT-HAUL OPERATIONS

(YATES HELI-OPS 338) b)MEETS INSPECTION CRITERIA c)INSPECTION LOG UP TO DATE

CODE

REMARKS

100’ 150’ 250’


ITEM

#

EVALUATION

CRITERIA

LAST

REVIEW

CODE REMARKS

N-12 EMERGENCY CUT AWAY KNIFE

N-13 a)GERBER E-ZIP BEING UTILIZED b)CONNECTED TO HARNESS PER EMSHOP

SPOTTER TETHER a) MEETS EMSHOP CRITERIA (METOLIUS

ULTIMATE DAISY) b)GIRTH HITCHED TO AFT WAIST BELT OF

HARNESS

N-14

N-15 c)INSPECTED WITH HARNESS d)INSPECTIONS DOCUMENTED e)STAMPED W/MANUFACTURED DATE

SPOTTER TETHER ATTACHMENT a)INSTALLED CORRECTLY b)ADJUSTED APPROPRIATLEY c)MEETS INSPECTION CRITERIA d)STAMPED W/MANUFACTURED DATE

SHORT-HAULER TETHER a)MEETS EMSHOP CRITERIA (METOLIUS

ULTIMATE DAISY)

N-16

N-17 b)GIRTH HITCHED TO ATTACHMENT

POINT ON THE FRONT OF HARNESS c)INSPECTED WITH HARNESS d)INSPECTIONS DOCUMENTED e)STAMPED W/MANUFACTURED DATE

HELMETS (SPOTTER/SHORT-HAULER) a)MEET IHOG REQUIREMENTS b)AVIONICS FOR INTERCOM AND RADIO

COMMUNICATION

GLOVES (SPOTTER/SHORT-HAULER)

N-18 b)APPROVED FOR SHORT-HAUL

OPERATIONS PER EMSHOP c)MEETS INSPECTION CRITERIA

EYE PROTECTION


ITEM

#

EVALUATION

CRITERIA

LAST

REVIEW

CODE REMARKS

N-19 MEDICAL EXTRACTION EQUIPMENT

(BAUMAN BAG AND SCREAMER SUIT) a)APPROVED FOR SHORT-HAUL

OPERATIONS

N-20 b) INSPECTED PRIOR TO EACH USE c)MEETS INSPECTION CRITERIA

EQUIPMENT RETIREMENT a)WHAT PROCESS IS TAKEN WHEN

RETIRING EQUIPMENT b)HOW IS RETIRED EQUIPMENT

RECORDED

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:


ITEM

#

EVALUATION

CRITERIA

LAST

REVIEW

CODE REMARKS

N-21 RAPREC

N-22

EQUIPMENT LOGS a) WHAT FORMAT IS USED FOR EQUIPMENT

LOGS? BACKUP LOGS? b)ARE EQUIPMENT LOGS UP-TO-DATE,

LEGIBLE, AND COMPLETE c)ARE EQUIPMENT LOGS CONSOLIDATED

IN ONE LOCATION d) WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR MAINTAINING

EQUIPMENT LOGS e) WHAT FORMAT IS USED FOR INSPECTION

LOGS f)ARE INSPECTION LOGS CONSOLIDATED

IN ONE LOCATION g)ARE INSPECTION LOGS UP TO DATE,

LEGIBLE, AND COMPLETE h)ENTRIES IN INSPECTION LOGS

ACCURATELY DESCRIBE CONDITION OF

EQUIPMENT

SHORT-HAUL UNIT LOG a)WHAT FORMAT IS USED FOR INDIVIDUAL

SHORT-HAUL RECORDS b) INDVIDUAL/MASTER SHORT-HAUL

RECORDS UP TO DATE LEGIBLE AND

COMPLETE c)MASTER SHORT-HAUL RECORDS

CONSOLIDATED IN A SINGLE LOG IN ONE

LOCATION d)WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR MAINTAINING

INDVIDUAL SHORT-HAUL RECORDS e) WHAT FORMAT IS USED FOR INDIVIDUAL

SHORT-HAULLER AND SPOTTER TRAINING

RECORDS, BACKUP? f) ARE INDIVIDUAL SHORT-HAUL AND

SPOTTER TRAINING RECORDS

CONSOLIDATED WITH THE SHORT-HAUL

UNIT LOG IN ONE LOCATION g) WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR MAINTAINING

INDIVIDUAL SHORT-HAUL AND SPOTTER

TRAINING RECORDS

HARD COPY

HARD COPY RAPREC


SHORT-HAUL OPERATIONS

ITEM

#

EVALUATION

CRITERIA

N-23 a)INSPECTION OF SHORT-HAUL

SECONDARY RESTRAINT, WHERE

DOCUMENTED?

LAST

REVIEW

CODE REMARKS b)WHAT CRITERIA IS USED TO DETERMINE

A SHORT-HAUL MISSION* c)WHEN DO YOU DOWNLOAD* d)WHO MAKES THE DETERMINATION TO

DOWNLOAD* e)WHO PICKS THE SHORT-HAUL SITE* f)WHAT CRITERIA IS USED FOR SITE

SELECTION* g)WHAT CRITERIA IS USED FOR

DESCENDING BELOW THE CANOPY h)WHAT INFORMATION IS SPOTTER

RESPONSIBLE FOR SUPPLYING TO

PERSONNEL i)HAVE SHORT-HAUL EMERGENCY

PROCEDURES BEEN BRIEFED WITH THE

PILOT j)HOW OFTEN ARE SHORT-HAUL

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES DISCUSSED

WITH THE PILOT* n)WHERE DO PROFICIENCY SHORT-HAULS

TYPICALLY TAKE PLACE* o)AFTER ACTION REVIEWS PERFORMED

AFTER EACH OPERATIONAL SHORT-HAUL


PREFLIGHT BRIEFING

ITEM

#

N-24

EVALUATION

CRITERIA

SHORT-HAUL OPERATION PROFICIENCY CHECK a)LOCATION OF OPERATION

LAST

REVIEW

CODE REMARKS

N-25 b)NUMBER TO BE DEPLOYED c)MISSION AS APPLICABLE d)WHO’S INVOLVED e)RISK MANAGEMENT f)MANIFEST AND LOAD CALCULATION

AIRCRAFT CONFIGURATION a)SEATS CONFIGURED PER EMSHOP b)DOORS OPEN AND LOCKED OR REMOVED

N-26 SHORT-HAUL RIGGING a)LINE ATTACHED TO PRIMARY ANCHOR

APPROPRIATELY b)LINE ATTACHED TO SECONDARY

ANCHOR APPROPRIATELY c) CARABINERS LOCKED AND ORIENTED

CORRECTLY

CODE KEYE = EXCEEDS STANDARD M = MEETS STANDARD NI = NEEDS IMPROVEMENT NR = NOT REVIEWED

ITEM

#

EVALUATION

CRITERIA

LAST

REVIEW

CODE REMARKS

N-27 IN FLIGHT PROCEDURES a) HIGH LEVEL RECON b) LOW LEVEL RECON c) IDENTIFY PRIMARY AND ALTERNATE SITES d)SITE ADEQUATELY IDENTIFIED e)IDENTIFY HAZARDS AS APPROPRIATE

N-28 f) HIGH HOVER POWER CHECK COMPLETED g) POSITIVE RATE OF CLIMB ESTABLISHED h) DOORS REMOVED AS APPROPRIATE

SHORT-HAUL SEQUENCE a) SPOTTER EFFECTIVELY POSITIONS

AIRCRAFT OVER SHORT-HAUL SITE b ) SPOTTER INITIATES AND FOLLOWS SHORT-

HAUL SEQUENCE AS IDENTIFIED IN EMSHOP c) COMMUNICATION IS IN THE FORM OF

CHALLENGE AND RESPONSE

SPOTTER/PILOT d) SPOTTER/PILOT COMMUNICATION IS

CLEAR, CONCISE, AND EFFICIENT e)SPOTTER CLEARS AIRCRAFT BEFORE

DIRECTING AIRCRAFT MOVEMENT f) SHORT-HAULLERS FOLLOW SEQUENCE

AS OUTLINED IN EMSHOP g) SPOTTER GIVES CLEAR IDENTIFIABLE

APPROPRIATE HAND SIGNALS h)ADEQUATE ROTOR CLEARANCE

MAINTAINED i) SHORT-HAUL SEQUENCE CONDUCTED IN

MAXIMUM CONTINOUS PARAMETERS FOR

SHORT-HAUL OPERATIONS.

FUNCTIONAL AREA N - SUMMARY

(Review with Manager, Crew, and Vendor As Appropriate; Closeout With

Local Fire Management; Submit Formal Evaluation As Soon As Possible.)

GENERAL READINESS OF THE BASE

ITEMS WHICH ARE DEFICIENT

CORRECTIVE ACTION TO BE TAKEN

FUNCTIONAL AREA N- RECOMMENDATIONS AND FOLLOW UP REQUIREMENTS

(Review With Manager, Crew, and Vendor As Appropriate; Closeout With Local Fire Management;

Submit Formal Evaluation As Soon As Possible.)

DATE COMPLETE DUE

DATE

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

EVALUATION

SECTION

REQUIREMENT OR

RECOMMENDATION

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

/ /

APPENDIX G: GAR F OREST S ERVICE S HORT HAUL R ISK A SSESSMENT

Operational Risk Assessment Worksheet

Risk Rated 1 – 5 for each category. Mitigation should be considered for each category, particularly when rated higher than 3.

Supervision

Presence, accessibility and effectiveness of leadership for all teams and personnel. Leaders not task overloaded. Clear chain of command.

Planning

Adequate mission planning time with planned face to face briefings. Team input solicited.

Urgency not driving the mission. SOP’s being followed, required equipment on-sight. Airspace

(TFR, FTA) Identified other aircraft known.

Team Selection

Level of individual training and experience. Team cohesiveness and atmosphere that values input/self critique.

Team Fitness

Level of overall physical fitness of team. Level of crew member’s rest/fatigue and overall morale. Team members with major life distractions.

Communication

Infrastructure: Radio communications clear throughout area of operations, communications plan established and checked. Last minute changes in the plan can be clearly communicated to IC/Ops and agreed upon or face to face re-briefing.

Contingency Resources

Known resource availability/response time for back-up plan or accident response. Shared freq., & known capabilities.

Environment

Extreme temperatures, elevation, difficulty of terrain (aspect, foliage, slope, etc) long approach, remoteness, current and expected weather, proximity to active fire.

Incident Complexity

Activities that require special technical knowledge or skills. Number of variables that impact the performance of the mission. How well understood and how controlled are those variables?

Pace of operations, are other factors driving tempo? How much are we relying on perfect human performance for a successful outcome?

TOTAL 0-13

Green

14-30

Amber

31-40

Red

Mitigations

APPENDIX H:

NEMSHWT AND NSHOS CHARTER

National Short-Haul Operations Subcommittee Charter

Mission Statement

The National Short-Haul Operations Subcommittee (NSHOS) is established under the National

Emergency Medical Short-Haul Working Team (NEMSHWT). The primary mission for the NSHOS is to establish a formal process for review and evaluation of current and proposed helicopter shorthaul equipment, training, operating procedures and standardization for the United States Forest

Service. Based on those evaluations, the NSHOS will submit recommendations to the NEMSHWT.

Name

The National Short-Haul Operations Sub-Committee hereinafter referred to as the NSHOS.

Authority

The NSHOS reports to and receives direction from the NEMSHWT. The NEMSHWT authorizes the chair of the NSHOS to convene meetings, schedule agenda items, make contacts, negotiate work assignments, create working groups, or task teams.

The chair may also charge technical specialists listed in the NSHOS charter with tasks.

Purpose

The purpose of this group is to develop and implement a US Forest Service Short-Haul Program for emergency helicopter extraction of injured or ill personnel.

The NSHOS will solicit, review, and evaluate best business practices for helicopter short-haul equipment and procedures.

Group Composition

The NSHOS is made up of representatives from each of the FS regions and one national office representative liason.

Subcommittee members are appointed by corresponding Regional Helicopter Operations Specialist

(RHOS) and approved by the NEMSHWT chair.

Technical specialists may be requested as needed to assist with development and oversight.

Voting membership consists of one member from each Region, for a total of nine votes. A quorum of five members must be present to be considered a voting body. A proxy may be designated with concurrence from the RHOS for participation in NSHOS business.

Replacement of Members

Replacement of members will be solicited from respective Regional Helicopter Operations

Specialists, and may be initiated by the Chair.

Selection of the Chairpersons

The National Short-Haul Operations Subcommittee will elect a Chair and a Co-Chair from group members for a term of four (4) years. At the end of the four (4) year term the Co-Chair will become the Chair and a new Co-Chair will be elected.

Working Group Life Limit

The NSHOS will be in effect from the recognized approval date, as stated below, unless re-chartered by the National Emergency Medical Short-Haul Working Team.

Charter Approval

This charter is effective as of the date of approval and shall remain in effect until revised or revoked.

Approved:

_______________________________

Larry Sutton

Chair, NEMSHWT

__________________________

Date:

APPENDIX I: S ECONDARY R ELEASE I NSTALLATION A ID

To install secondary release system on the aircraft:

Route the flexible cable housing to the appropriate location inside the cabin. The cable housing is secured to the floor and as much slack as possible is removed from the system.

The flexible cable housing is routed through the keeper clips on the underside of the aircraft and onto the deck of the rear passenger compartment.

Remove the diaper pin, nut and washer on the end of the bolt at the primary cargo hook attachment point on the belly. Place the bolt through the upper ring of the 3-ring release system with the internal pull cable (“weed whacker line”) facing forward. Reinstall the nut, washer and diaper pin back on the bolt.

A tool kit will contain a spare diaper pin, bolt, washer, zip ties and necessary tools. The spare parts will be painted high visibility paint and stored with the secondary release system.

Pilot, working with the installing crewmember, will pull the release handle to an established point (DO

NOT PULL ALL THE WAY TO FULL RELEASE) ensuring that the release is functioning properly.

Ensure the internal pull cable is visible in the inspection window. Reinsert the cable, ensure that the tip of it extends past the lowest part of the 3-ring release system and secure the release pull handle. This check is to make sure that there is positive movement in the system and with the pilot/pull handle.

If applicable, remove the “arm” pin in the handle.

Perform hook checks:



Mechanical



Electrical

If applicable secure the electrical pigtail to the cargo swing cage

Ensure that the Three Ring Release D ring is connected to the Hook Extension D ring with the

3 stage carabiner.

Connect the haul line ring into the hook extension carabineer and hook extension round ring into the cargo hook. Pull down on ring to ensure that the cargo hook is locked into its upper position.

Lay out and inspect short-haul line in front of the helicopter.

Check placement of line ballast bag on short-haul line to approximately 6 feet from the end of the line.

Ensure line ballast cannot move/slide down line.

The system is then double-checked by the spotter and/or pilot.

NOTE: Damage to the aircraft may occur if the 3-ring release system is not secured either to the shorthaul line or to another adequate hard point, i.e. the cargo hook.

APPENDIX J: USFS S HORT HAUL M EDICAL E QUIPMENT AND T RAINING

The short-haul medical equipment package provides a standardized platform for EMS personnel to stabilize, and transport patients by short-haul. The IFAK, BLS, and O2 Stand-alone bags are designed with the minimum contents. Additional equipment can be added allowing flexibility as level of training and protocol allow. Each short-haul module will be required to have a minimum of (2) complete short-haul medical equipment packages. This will include:

(1) Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) for each EMT/Attendant

(2) BLS Bags

(2) O2 Stand-alone Bags

(2) Spine Stabilization Kits

(2) AEDs

Medical Training:

Patient packaging and medical training will be conducted at the programmatic level under the direction and supervision of the Local Medical Director and Local/Crew EMS Coordinator.

For training purposes each module will maintain separately from the operational equipment (1) BLS

Bag, (1) O2 Stand-alone Bag, and (1) AED trainer. The training kits will enable each module to train crewmembers with the tools and instruments that will be used in the field. Training can be conducted with the actual tools and instruments, and not alter the bag contents for operational use.

Short-Haul Medical Equipment Packages

Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK)

QTY UNIT AIRWAY

1 EACH Numask CPR Mask Basic CPR Kit

QTY UNIT INSTRUMENTS / TOOLS

1 EACH Shears EMT 5.5in

QTY UNIT BAG (Choose one per EMT)

1 EACH NAR Operator BLS/IFAK Bag

1

1

EACH Conterra Infinity Expedition Modular

Medical Pack

EACH Rip-Away EMT Pouch

ITEM #

50-0155

ITEM #

50-0660

1 EACH NAR Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT) 20-0080

QTY UNIT DRESSINGS / BANDAGES ITEM #

1

4

1

EACH Israeli Emergency Bandage 6in

EACH 4x4 Gauze Pad

ROLL Gauze roll 3”x5yd

40-0300

40-0770

40-0760

1 EACH QuikClot Combat Gauze Z-Folded LE, 3"x

4yds

20-0073

QTY UNIT OTHER

2 PAIR

ITEM #

Titongrip SE Blue Nitrile Exam Glove L or M 40-0850

ITEM #

70-1100

70-0620

70-0422

USFS Short-Haul BLS Bag

QTY UNIT AIRWAY

1 EACH Cyclone pocket BVM Rescuitator

1

1

1

1

1

1

EACH King LT-D airway kit, size 3



EACH Nasopharyngeal 26 Fr Airway w/lubricant

EACH Nasopharyngeal 28 Fr Airway w/lubricant

KIT Oral airway Guedel Disp. airways 8 sizes

ITEM #

50-0314

50-0022

50-0023

50-0024

30-1523

30-1490

50-0040

QTY UNIT AIRWAY

QTY UNIT INSTRUMENTS / TOOLS

1

1

1

1

1

1

1

KIT BP Cuff and Stethoscope Combo

EACH NAR Suction Device

EACH Fingertip Pulse Oximiter

EACH Shears EMT 7.5in

EACH NAR Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT)

EACH Sharps Container (For Epi Kit)

KIT Optimum EZ Glucometer Kit

1

6

2

2

1

2

1

QTY UNIT SPINE / SPLINT / TRACTION

1 EACH AMBU Perfit ACE-Adult

1

1

EACH SAM Splint Original

EACH SAM Pelvic Sling II

1 EACH Slishman Traction Splint

QTY UNIT DRESSINGS / BANDAGES

1 EACH Israeli Emergency Bandage 4in

EACH Israeli Emergency Bandage 6in

EACH 4x4 Gauze Pad

EACH 5x9 Gauze Pad

EACH 8x10 Gauze Pad

EACH Trauma Dressing, Sterile, 10x30

EACH Triangular Bandage

EACH Coban 3in

4

4

4

4

1

2

1

ROLL Gauze roll 3”x5yd

ROLL Elastic Wrap 4in

ROLL 1”x10yd Adhesive Tape

EACH Asherman Chest Seal

40-0756

40-0245

40-1185

50-0090

1

1

EACH H&H Sterile Burn Blanket 40-0672

EACH QuikClot Combat Gauze Z-Folded LE, 3"x 4yds 20-0073

QTY UNIT OTHER

1 TUBE Glutose 15gm

ITEM #

50-0202

EACH Biohazard Bag 1 gal

PAIR Titongrip SE Blue Nitrile Exam Glove M

PAIR Titongrip SE Blue Nitrile Exam Glove L

90-0055

40-0910

40-0930

1 EACH Numask CPR kit w/case

QTY UNIT ORGANIZER

1 EACH TCCC Medical Pack Insert, Empty w/ name

QTY UNIT BAG OPTIONS

1

1

EACH Conterra USAR Medical Response Pack

EACH Conterra Flightline Aero-Medical Pack

50-0156

ITEM #

30-0945

ITEM #

70-0764

70-0550

ITEM #

ITEM #

50-0060

50-0470

50-0811

50-0670

20-0080

50-0430

BT 2761-

10650

ITEM #

10-0520

10-0330

10-0070

10-0262

ITEM #

40-0305

40-0300

40-0840

40-0130

40-0140

40-0650

40-0190

40-0500

O2 Stand-alone Bag

QTY

1

UNIT TANK / REGULATOR

EACH O2 cylinder Size D - Carbon

1 EACH O2 Regulator

ITEM #

2310-

15820

388725

QTY UNIT

2 EACH

O2 DELIVERY

Adult NRB Mask

2

2

EACH

EACH

Adult Nasal Cannula

Extra Tubing

ITEM #

D6144

D6132

D6146

QTY UNIT

1 EACH

AIRWAY

Cyclone pocket BVM Rescuitator

1

1

1

EACH

EACH

King LT-D airway kit, size 4

Numask CPR kit w/case

ITEM #

50-0314

50-0022

50-0156

EACH Nasopharyngeal 26 Fr Airway w/lubricant 30-1523

1

1

EACH Nasopharyngeal 28 Fr Airway w/lubricant 30-1490

EACH NAR Suction Device 50-0470

1 KIT

QTY UNIT

Oral airway Guedel Disp. airways 8 sizes

OTHER

50-0040

ITEM #

1

2

1

EACH Tank Wrench - Plastic

PAIR Titongrip SE Blue Nitrile Exam Glove M

2 PAIR

QTY UNIT

Titongrip SE Blue Nitrile Exam Glove L

BAG

EACH Conterra Basic 02 (sub for special order)

D4161

40-0910

40-0930

ITEM #

BOK1

USFS Short-Haul Spine Stabilization Equipment

QTY UNIT STABILIZATION EQUIPMENT

1

1

1

EACH

EACH

EACH

Traverse Rescue Stretcher

Folding Backboard (plastic)

Conterra VSB Vacuum Immobilizer

QTY UNIT

1 EACH

STABILIZATION ACCESSORIES

Kendrick Extrication Device (KED)

2

2

EACH

EACH

Spider Straps

STAT Head Blocks

ITEM#

0107977

35940-P

VSB1

ITEM#

0313676

10-0512

260975

USFS Short-Haul AED Kit

QTY UNIT AED KIT

1 EACH Philips Heartstart FRx

1 EACH Philips Heartstart FRx Trainer

ITEM#

PFRXN

PFRXT

APPENDIX K: G LOSSARY AND A CRONYMS

ALSE:

Aviation Life Support Equipment

Anchor Plate:

The “Anchor Plate’ (or “Anchor Point”) is an approved point of attachment for haul line or safety tether for the short-haul spotter. The anchor plate specification for the make and model of the aircraft is evaluated and approved by FAA and/or the agency. The owner of the anchor plate is responsible for ensuring that the inspection(s) are conducted as per the manufacturer’s specifications. Refer to MTDC for particular anchor plate locations for make and model of aircraft as identified in the IHRG.

[References: IHRG]

Anchor Point:

Is the primary location on the helicopter for attaching the "Standing End" of the haul-line to the helicopter. For short-haul operations, the anchor point will be an FAA approved "cargo hook" located underneath the helicopter. This term is also used to identify a location inside the aircraft to affix a

“Tether”.

A.N.S.I.

( A merican N ational S tandards I nstitute):

ANSI develops standards that are referred to by rule-setting organizations such as O.S.H.A.

Carabineer:

Is a (opening/closing) metal link made of various metal alloy(s) used to link one or more systems together? Carabineers are most commonly used for linking full-body or short-haul harnesses to haullines, knots, or other weld less or non-opening links. They come in various shapes and sizes depending on specific needs. All carabineers have a spring-loaded hinged gate that is self-closing.

Depending on the need or application, carabineers have various "locking" methods, i.e., "Twist",

"Screw", or self “Auto-Closing/Auto-Locking" features built in.

Carabineers are made up of a "spine", "hinge", "notch", "latch", "pin", and a "gate"; (those with) locking features will be found on the "gate". Carabineers generally have two minimum rated breaking strengths; one along the "major" (longitudinal) axis (a.k.a. the "spine") and one along the "minor"

(latitudinal) axis. The minimum (carabineer) rated breaking strength(s) referred to, in this package, will be of the "major" (long) axis.

Cargo hook:

An FAA certified device, that is a manufactured and installed external load carrying hook; located at the center of gravity on the belly of a helicopter, that can be released either electrically or manually by the pilot.

Center of Gravity “CG”:

An imaginary point where the resultant weight forces in the body may be considered to be concentrated for any position of the body. Consideration of center of gravity limitation is important in the loading of all aircraft, but it is particularly important and critical in helicopters.

CWN: (Call When Needed; pilot(s) and/or aircraft)

A pilot and/or aircraft "carded" (approved) for USFS aviation operations.

DORA (The Daily Operational Risk Assessment):

To be used in short-haul, will be the GAR Model. The GAR will be implemented prior to every mission and readdressed as conditions warrant.

D-Ring:

A drop forged steel alloy (metal) "D" shaped ring. D-Rings approved for primary and/or secondary attachment points must meet ANSI, CE, Mil-Spec, NFPA, OSHA, or UIAA (or any combination thereof).

Ear mic:

A microphone placed in the area of the ear for tactical operations and used in conjunction with a radio.

Exclusive Use Contract:

An agreement used between an aircraft company and agency for the specific use of aircraft for agency purpose.

FAA ( F ederal A viation A dministration):

The Federal agency that administers all commercial aircraft operations.

FAR's ( F ederal A viation R egulations):

Federal rules and regulations that govern commercial use aircraft.

Fixed Eye DMM Steel Lock Safe Carabiner:

A carabiner type device with a minimum rated strength 10,000 lbs.

GAR : ( G reen -A mber -R ed):

The GAR model allows for time critical risk assessment and generates communication concerning the mission risks.

Gate(s):

The opening portion of any carabineer. Some gates are designed to automatically lock once fully closed; others do not.

Hard Point(s):

An FAA approved location or device, located either inside or outside of a helicopter, and is secured sufficiently (to the aircraft) to tie-down or secure an item attached to the point.

Harness:

A full-body belt system made of flat nylon webbing. A harness contains leg, waist, chest and shoulder straps designed to fit snugly on the outside (clothing) of short-haul personnel. Harnesses will contain one or more approved lifting (attachment) points either at the front of the hip/waist, chest, tops of both shoulder (straps), or middle of the upper back (depending on the needed application). An approved solid metal "D-Ring" will be sewn into each of the approved attachment points by the manufacture at time of the original manufacture.

Haul Bag:

Bag used for hauling equipment. Sometimes attached to harness or haul-line.

HEC:

Human External Cargo.

IHOG:

Interagency Helicopter Operational Plan.

IKAR :

International Commission of Alpine Rescue.

Lanyard (or Safety Tether):

A nylon strap used to connect the short-haul harness to an FAA approved "anchor-point" on the helicopter. It allows the short-haul spotter to move freely inside the helicopter but will catch (him/her) in the event they begin to fall out of the helicopter.

Line:

Another term used for "rope”, often used to refer to a synthetic rope, wire rope, or “haul-line”.

Long or Major Axis:

A term used to describe the (carabineer) manufactures primary load-bearing design, along its "spine".

Most carabineers have two minimum-rated breaking strengths; the higher rating is meant for forces that are pulled the long way along the spine. The low rating is meant for any kind of side loading the carabineer may be subjected to.

O.S.H.A. (Occupational Safety and Health Administration):

A part of the Department of Labor tasked with enforcing safety in the workplace.

PIC:

Pilot In Command.

PPE:

Personal Protective Clothing; this can include: NOMEX, helmets, goggles, gloves, etc.

Safety-Locking (carabineer):

A carabiner that incorporates a locking feature on the gate of the carabiner to prevent an accidental opening.

Safety Tether:

The Short-Haul Safety Tether is a safety strap that attaches to the Spotter harness to an approved helicopter anchor point. The safety tether is to prevent the Spotter from falling out of the aircraft while in flight, in the event of an inadvertent seat belt failure. The tether may also allow the Spotter to move freely from one side of the rear compartment to the other side, at the direction of the pilot.

Splicing (or "Spliced Eyes"):

A term used to describe a process and/or procedure, where one (or both) end(s) of a Double-Braided

Nylon, Polyester, or "Tenex" rope, is blended back into it to form a closed "eye" or "eyelet" loop(s).

Spliced eyes will normally contain a stainless steel thimble inside to reduce the wear or friction along the inside of the eye. Whenever possible, "spliced eyes" should be used instead of any type of knot(s), as knots can decrease the ropes strength by as much as 50%. Any rope splicing will be performed by an approved manufacture and/or (rope) distributing company certified to perform this procedure.

Standing-End:

The designated (top) end of any rope or cable hauling line. The "standing end" will (always) be used to attach the hauling line to the primary "anchor point" and "belly-band" (located on the helicopter).

Swivel:

Helicopter accessory used with external jettisonable loads that hooks into either a cargo hook or

"remote hook". The swivel allows the load to oscillate in flight without binding the hauling (rope and/or cable) lines.

Thimble:

A stainless steel or galvanized metal device designed to fit inside of a rope or wire cable(s) spliced eye.

It provides wear protection for moving and/or shifting hardware manufactured and/or placed inside of the eye.

Tri-axial Loading:

A situation that occurs when a carabineer is pulled or "loaded" in three different directions at the same time. This shifts the load away from the spine, reducing the working load of carabineers, that are primarily designed for a straight pull or lifting situations.

UIAA (Union of International Alpine Association);

A European organization that certifies that equipment meets European mountaineering standards. The

UIAA test fall is a laboratory simulation of the fall of a rock climber. The CE standard is replacing

UIAA and new ropes will be carrying the new label.

Wave Off:

Hands crossing over head (short-hauler) or hand motioning across front of chest indicating something is wrong, do not do not continue.

Wire Rope (Independent Wire Core Rope-IWRC):

A steel cable of braided construction. For the purposes of this document, a wire rope, (or “cable”) used forextracation operations will be constructed of 19 x 7 rotational resistant extra improved plow steel wire rope, at least 5/8 inch in diameter, and of American manufacture.

Working-End:

The bottom end of any rope or cable haul-line. The "working end" will (always) be used as the attachment point

APPENDIX L: R ISK A NALYSIS FOR S HORT HAUL

National Short-Haul Quality Assurance Residual Risk Rationale

Personnel System

Sub System

Hazard

Pilot

(PR4) Overly aggressive tendencies and flying techniques by the pilot

Mitigation (PR4M1) Utilize the initial pre-use briefing to establish expectations and positive helicopter management by the Short-Haul Spotter, HMGB and Pilot.

Residual Rating High

Rationale With the use of CRM training, GAR risk assessments, pre-op briefings, and daily communication among team members may identify and mitigate potential aggressive flying behavior; however no one can adequately anticipate personnel response to situations with peak emotional and physical stressors that may arise due to medical emergencies . All pilots will be required to successfully complete the Short-haul Practical

Test Standards, which should help identify pilots with aggressive tendencies.

Sub System

Hazard

Mitigation

Human Factors

(PR12) Fatigue impacting personnel capability to perform their duties at the necessary level.

(PR12M2 ) Improve education and information sharing for all personnel on heat, hydration, rest, and other physiological conditions issues. Complete daily internal crew checks.


Rationale The absence of some level of mental or physical fatigue is rare in the wildlandfire or rescue environment. Short haul mission personnel shall be trained in team selection, identification of fatigue symptoms, and fatigue management methods to limit the occurrence of unrested personnel; however the elimination of all fatigue which may be a contributing factor to a high consequence is improbable. Crew Resource Management

Training should lead to team members communicating and mitigating fatigue issues in a timely manner.

Training System

Sub System

Hazard

Mitigation

Training Delivery

(TR6) Lack of emergency procedures training prior to actual missions

(TR6M1) Short-Haul Spotters, EMT Short-Haulers and pilot preseason and prior to missions discuss expectations & complete simulation training for any unplanned event.


Rationale Personnel will be trained to implement emergency procedures for known conditions and sequences of events to reduce the probability and limit the severity of adverse outcomes.

Standardized training in an academy setting should alleviate inconsistencies that could

Sub System

Hazard

Mitigation lead to errors in emergency procedures. Despite a very low residual probability rating, the potential severity of any emergency remains high.

Site Selection

(OP1) Selection of an inadequate Short-Haul insertion site could result in an unsafe environment for Short-Haul personnel also increasing the exposure to rotor strikes, and entanglements.

(OP1M2) Pilot should ensure site selections meet Interagency Helicopter Operations

Guide (IHOG) standards during below canopy operations.


Rationale Maintaining rotor clearance and preventing rope entanglements will be a collaborative task for the pilot, spotter, and short hauler. Site selection is addressed during the

Practical Test Standards for pilots as well as in the Short-haul Academy consolidated training for spotters. Despite a low probability of a rotor strike or rope entanglement with mitigations, the severity of any incident below a canopy top environment would still be high.

Operations System

Sub System

Hazard

Short Haul Procedures

(OP15) Human external cargo collision with terrain or objects

Mitigation (OP15M1) Ensure Short-Haul spotters in aircraft


Rationale Adequately trained and experienced pilots have unintentionally impacted the ground or other obstacles while performing other external load missions. It can be expected that short haul pilots that have received additional specialized training will be subject to this occurring with human loads much less frequently. Communication between the pilot, spotter and short-hauler is covered in detail during the Practical Test Standards as well as in the Short-haul Academy Consolidated Training.

As remote as this occurrence may be after this training and other mitigations are in place, the high consequence rating cannot be reduced further.

Sub Systems

Hazard

Mitigation


(OP17) Lack of Emergency Procedures training prior to actual missions

(OP17M1) Develop emergency procedures and implement training


Rationale Personnel will be trained to implement emergency procedures for known conditions and sequences of events to reduce the probability of an inappropriate response on the part of the crew in an emergency setting. Standardized training in an academy setting should alleviate inconsistencies that could lead to errors in emergency procedures. Because of the numerous combinations of operational and environmental uncertainties an emergency that can occur, preparation will never eliminate a potential high severity outcome for some unforeseen factor.

Sub Systems

Hazard

Mitigation


(OP18) Inflight aircraft emergency of an immediate nature.

(OP18M1) Implement emergency procedures identified in the FSSHOP


Rationale While this hazard probability is low with successful mitigations in place, in flight emergencies such as engine, hydraulic, or other mechanical failure resulting in limited or lack of control of aircraft can still occur. Emergency Procedures have been developed and implemented for the short-haul program, these procedures are addressed in the

Practical Test Standards and at the Short-haul Academy Consolidated Training. These measures should lessen the severity should such an event occur. Due to the environment in which these events could occur, there still may be a high severity outcome. The extent of loss or injury is dependent upon the stage of short haul mission.

Sub System

Hazard

Mitigation


(OP20) Intentional human cargo release

(OP20M1) Short-Haul Spotters, Short-Haulers and pilot preseason and prior to missions discuss expectations and alternatives to increase the survivability in the event of a helicopter loss of control or power failure.


Rationale Any intentional human cargo release will be intended to improve survivability of those onboard and external to the aircraft. . Emergency Procedures address situations which may require an intentional release of the external human cargo, and are addressed in the

Practical Test Standards and at the Short-haul Academy Consolidated Training. These measures may lessen the severity should such an event occur. Despite the low probability of intentionally releasing human cargo to improve survivability for all parties, there is still the potential that this action will result in high severity consequence for

crewmembers and or aircraft. The extent of loss or injury is dependent upon the stage of short haul mission.

Sub System

Hazard

Mitigation

Residual Risk

Rationale

Environmental Hazards

(OP25) Falling Debris

(OP25M1) Utilize appropriate head protection when working under or in the vicinity of a hovering helicopter.

High

There will be some moderate level of probability of falling objects or debris striking a person operating below hovering aircraft in a tree canopy environment. No mitigating factor can eliminate a moderate to high consequence rating associated with a strike to the head of a short hauler or other personnel.

Sub System

Hazard

Mitigation

Residual Risk

Rationale

Environmental Hazards

(OP26) Fire Behavior

(OP26M1) Ensure LCES is in place. If necessary relocate patient to more suitable site.

High

The wildland fire environment is inherently high risk dynamic environment. Even with mitigations in place there is a low probability of being affected by fire activity by expected events such as weather. With some degree of uncertainty of environmental factors, there will always be potential of a high severity outcome with unexpected fire behavior requiring a relocation of a patient to more safe location to complete a medical extraction.

Medical Treatment

Sub System Patient

Hazard

Mitigation

Residual

Rationale

Risk

(MTS4) Patient injury or illness is beyond Basic Life Support

(MTS4S1) Rapid transport to Advanced Life Support

High

Even with mitigations in place, due to the availability of Short-Haul resources and the remoteness of the wildland fire environment, there will be a moderate level of risk to the patient being able to receive timely transport to definitive medical treatment due to environmental and operational variables.

Sub System Patient

Hazard

Mitigation

Residual Risk

Rationale

(MTS4) Patient injury or illness is beyond Basic Life Support

(MTS4S2) Communicate additional needs to Dispatch, ICP, ATGS, etc.

High

Even with mitigations in place, due to the availability of Short-Haul resources and the remoteness of the wildland fire environment, there will be a moderate level of risk to the patient being able to receive timely transport to definitive medical treatment. Develop contingencies to bolster resources on scene to establish care until transportation logistics can be established.

R

EGIONAL

S

HORT

-

HAUL

P

ROGRAM

2015 R

ISK

A

SSESSMENT

REGION ______ DATE_______

Short-Haul, Personnel System:

PR2 Not proficient in the Short-Haul mission.

 PR2M3. Utilize Contract specifications to limit the number of carded Short-Haul pilots.

 PR2M4. Ensure the Short-Haul Spotter has the authority to stop the operation if, the person considers the pilot not proficient for the mission.

PR3 Not fit or prepared for duty.

 PR3M1. Ensure the Short-Haul Spotter’s authority to stop the operation if the person considers the pilot not fit or prepared for the mission, is understood and respected.

 PR3M2. Short-Haul Spotter / HMGB ensures pilot adheres to pilot duty limitations.

 PR3M3. Utilize the initial pre-use briefing to establish expectations and positive helicopter management by the Short-Haul Spotter, Helicopter Manager and pilot.

PR4 Overly aggressive tendencies and flying techniques by the pilot.

 PR4M1. Utilize the initial pre-use briefing to establish expectations and positive helicopter management by the Short-Haul Spotter, HMGB and Pilot.

 PR4M1. Ensure the Short-Haul Spotter’s authority to stop the operation if the person considers the pilot not fit or prepared for the mission, is understood and respected.

PR5 Pilots not communicating safety concerns.

 PR5M1. Short-Haul Spotters and HMGB establish open communication with the pilot to develop mission specific rapport and use CRM.

 PR5M2. Seek and encourage feedback during the GAR process, After Action Review (AAR) and debriefings.

PR6 Short-Haul Spotters not qualified in the Short-Haul mission.

 PR6M3. Adhere to the EMSHOP currency and performance standards for Short-Haul Spotters.

PR7 Short-Hauler not qualified in the Short-Haul mission.

 PR7M2. Adhere to the EMSHOP currency and performance standards for Short-Haul Spotters.

PRB Short-Hauler/attendant or Spotter not fit for duty.

 PR8M1. Ensure the Short-Haul Spotter and Short-Haul personnel follow CRM principles. Enabling all personnel to speak up

 PR8M2. Ensure initial operational briefing includes expectations for Short-Haul personnel, which includes performance standards.

PR9 EMT Short-Hauler incapable of providing adequate medical care

 PR9M1. Ensure the employee is qualified as an EMT Short-Hauler.

PR10 Lack of fundamental, foundational knowledge on the part of ground personnel for Short-

Haul operations

 PR10M2. Ensure communications are established with ground personnel prior to insertion.

PR12 Fatigue impacting personnel capability to perform their duties at the necessary level.

 PR12M1. Short-Haul Managers will evaluate the fatigue level of the pilot and the crew.

 PR12M2. Improve education of all personnel on heat, hydration, rest, and other physiological conditions issues.

 PR12M3. Monitoring by designated safety personnel.

 PR12M4. Rotate people if performance degradation is evident.

PR13 Rapid transition between mission types interfering with situational awareness.

 PR13M1. Ensure adequate briefings and that Short-Haul Spotter is watching for procedural errors.

Each short-haul mission must get a GAR Risk Assesment

 PR13M2. Strengthen and enforce training and briefings for the Short-Haul mission to maintain focus during transitions between helicopter missions.

PR14 Lack of proficiency due to low frequency performance of mission

 PR14M1. Ensure proper briefings and remind personnel to stay focused on the mission.

 PR14M2. Provide additional qualified management for focus and supervision.

Short-Haul, Training System:

TR2 Policy and training requirements are inconsistent between agencies participating in

Short-Haul operations.

 TR2M1. Ensure procedures, process and equipment standards are in alignment with each agencies guidelines.

Short-Haul, Operations System:

OP1 Selection of an inadequate Short-Haul insertion site could result in an unsafe environment for Short-Haul personnel also increasing the exposure to rotor strikes, and entanglements.

 OP1M1. Rely on the Pilot in Command and Spotter for approval of all insertion and extraction sites.

 OP1M2. Pilot will ensure site selections meet Interagency Helicopter Operations Guide (IHOG) standards during below canopy operations.

 OP1M3. Use a reconnaissance flight with the pilot and Short-Haul Spotter to evaluate the proposed operation.

 OP1M4. The first insertion at the site shall confirm and communicate any additional hazards and the suitability of the site.

OP2 Pilot confusion from non-standardized verbal and non-verbal communications.

 OP2M1. Implement standardized verbal and non-verbal communications with pilot and Short-

Haul personnel.

OP3 Uncontrolled personnel at configuration site or patient transfer site.

 OP3M1. Conduct reconnaissance flight and provide for scene safety

 OP3M2. Coordinate with ground personnel, ATGS, and other functions involved in emergency extraction.

OP4 Lack of adequate helicopter crewmembers/Short-Haulers/EMT's for the overall mission.

 OP4M1. Ensure, develop and identify a pool of qualified personnel prior to mission.

OP5 Lack of program oversight to ensure standardization and quality assurance.

 OP5M1. Have in place standard unit organizational chart including; Forest Aviation Officer, Unit

Aviation Officer, Full complement of helicopter management in place.

OP6 Not all Short-Haul personnel have received a briefing resulting in confusion prior to or during mission.

 OP6M1. Ensure all participants are briefed prior to the mission.

OP6.1 Post-flight debriefings are not consistently performed resulting in loss of mission information and lessons learned.

 OP6.1M1. Helicopter Managers and Short-Haulers are responsible to seek and encourage feedback during After Action Reviews (AARs) and debriefings at end of each phase of mission.

 OP6.1M2. Ensure mission evaluation documentation is completed and reported to the National

Short-Haul Specialist.

OP7 Insufficient or unfamiliar medical plan for incident or local unit.

 OP7M1. Ensure a medical plan with all pertinent information is in place and brief accordingly.

 OP7M2. Prior to mission planning coordinate with IMT's, Dispatch centers, Local units as appropriate.

OP8 Outside ground or air resource medical assistance is not available in some Short-Haul operations areas.

 OP8M1. Ensure Medical Plan identifies a source and location to meet outside medical transport assets.

 OP8M2. Ensure Medical Plan provides for air evacuation and ground evacuation contingencies.

OP9 Short-Haul personnel lack adequate medical training for field emergencies.

 OP9M2. Ensure an EMT is a component of every Short-Haul mission.

OP10 Local unit, IMT's, Dispatch, unfamiliar with FSSH Program capabilities and limitations.

 OP10M1. Communicate preseason and prior to conducting missions, on capabilities and limitations.

 OP10M2. Develop a Short-Haul resource user’s guide describing capabilities and limitations.

(Helicopter/module Information Sheet)

OP11 Non-standardized operational procedures.

 OP11M1. Follow standardized operational procedures identified in EMSHOP.

OP12 Requesting a Short-Haul mission that exceeds the capabilities of the resource and personnel.

 OP12M1. Work within the scope of the EMSHOP and mission parameters.

OP13 Improper rigging of Short-Hauler/attendant/litter to Short-Haul system.

 OP13M1. Perform a buddy/spotter check before each flight. Follow EMSHOP procedures.

OP14 Improper rigging of Short-Haul system to aircraft.

 OP14M1. Shut aircraft down at configuration site. Spotter and pilot check prior to starting mission.

OP15 Human external cargo collision with terrain or objects

 OP15M1. Ensure Short-Haul spotter in aircraft.

 OP15M2. Positive communications between pilot, spotter, attendant or Short-Hauler.

OP16 Lack of a crash rescue kit on an operation.

 OP16M1. Ensure crash rescue kits are available as needed at the helibase during Short-Haul operations.

OP17 Lack of emergency procedures training prior to actual missions

 OP17M1. Short-Haul Spotters, Short-Haulers and pilot preseason and prior to missions discuss expectations in the event of a helicopter loss of control or power failure.

OP18 Inflight aircraft emergency of an immediate nature.

 OP18M1. Implement emergency procedures identified in the EMSHOP.

OP19 Inadvertent human cargo release.

 OP19M1. Check cargo hook prior to mission, pilot and spotter familiarization and utilization of primary and secondary restraint system.

OP20 Intentional human cargo release

 OP20M1. Short-Haul Spotters, Short-Haulers and pilot preseason and prior to missions discuss expectations and alternatives to increase the survivability in the event of a helicopter loss of control or power failure.

OP21 Pilot loss of vertical reference.

 OP21M1. Pilot in correct seat to maintain vertical reference.

 OP21M2. Short-Haul Spotter on board to assist pilot with vertical reference and identify hazards.

OP22 Unclear/misunderstood communications.

 OP22M1. Utilize clear text and standardized challenge and response communications.

OP23 Exposure to traumatic events involving loss of human life or severe injury.

 OP23M1. Preseason preparation using resources such as "Stress Control and Resilience Guide".

 OP23M2. Implement Critical Incident Stress Management post incident as needed.

OP24. Overwhelming sense of urgency in life threating situation

 OP24M1. During configuration phase, consider shutting down aircraft.

OP25 Falling debris.

 OP25M1. Utilize appropriate head protection when working under or in the vicinity of a hovering helicopter.

 OP25M2. Include hazard awareness in Short-Haul training and refresher courses as well as daily operation plans and briefings.

 OP25M3. Ensure clearance and rotor height is adequate at site and check surrounding area for hazard trees. If necessary relocate patient to more suitable site.

OP26 Fire Behavior

 OP26M1. Ensure LCES is in place. If necessary relocate patient to more suitable site.

 OP26M2. Ensure helicopter does not impact fire behavior by maintaining sufficient height above ground.

OP27 Low visibility due to smoke, dust, darkness, etc.

 OP27M1. Follow IHOG standards. Establish trigger points to cease operations.

 OP27M2. Select site so that the spotter can maintain positive visual contact with Short-Haulers to the ground, to insert and extract.

OP28 Lack of training short-haul mishaps being reported

 OP28M1. ALL short-haul mishaps will be reported through the SAFECOM system until there is another system is approved.

Short-Haul Equipment System:

EQ1 Non-standard and non-agency approved equipment resulting in unfamiliarity in utilization of equipment.

 EQ1M2. Use only equipment identified and approved in the EMSHOP.

EQ4 Spotter tether attachment point is not uniformly defined or tested in some aircraft leading to tether attachment failure.

 EQ4M1. Ensure Spotter tether attachment point is approved with proper and valid STC's, tested annually, installed correctly, inspected as manufacturer recommendations.

EQ5 Short-Haul equipment improperly rigged on the aircraft.

 EQ5M1. Pilot and Short-Haul Spotter will perform the initial rigging of the aircraft for Short-Haul operations.

EQ6 Pilot utilizing a length of line not proficient with.

 EQ6M1. Ensure pilot carding and approved prior to mission execution.

 EQ6M2. Limit pilot to line length carded for by HIP. Short-Haul Spotter is responsible for verifying the maximum line carding matches line length use in the operation.

EQ7 Short-Hauler / EMT Short-Hauler without personal protective equipment or supplies at

Short-Haul landing site.

 EQ7M1. Ensure standardized haul bag with personnel protective equipment.

Short-Haul, Medical System:

MTS1 EMT unfamiliar with medical equipment

 MTS1S2. Trained on use and care of equipment.

MTS2 Rendering services beyond scope of practice

 MT2S1. EMT's knowledgeable of scope of practice limitations, and able to provide care only within scope

 MT2S2. Ensure certification is current and all training has been conducted

MTS3 Utilizing an inappropriate Short-Haul Extraction packaging system.

 MT3S1. Accurate patient assessment by EMT.

 MTS32. Correct selection of transport method. (Helicopter Rescue Bag/Litter/Screamer Suit)

Short-Haul, Aircraft System:

AC2 Exceeding the performance capability of the Type 3 helicopters.

 AC2M1. Operate per Interagency Helicopter Operations Guide (IHOG), Rotorcraft Flight Manual

(RFM) and the Short-Haul Guide.

 AC2M2. Ensure make and model meet FAR Part 27 specifications.

AC3 Environmental conditions such as terrain, density altitude, elevation, winds and temperature impacting helicopter performance.

 AC3M1. Operate per Interagency Helicopter Operations Guide (IHOG), Rotorcraft Flight Manual

(RFM) and the Short-Haul Guide.

AC4 Aircraft not properly equipped for human loads.

 AC4M2. Ensure Short-Haul Spotter verifies cargo hook system is approved by the agency for human loads.

APPENDIX M: R ESERVED (N EW E QUPMENT AND P ROCEDURES P ROPOSAL )

APPENDIX N: R ESERVED (N EW B ASE S TART U P )

USDA F S E

OREST

ERVICE

MERGENCY

EDICAL

HORT

AUL

PERATIONS

LAN

USDA Forest Service

Emergency Medical

Short-Haul Operations Plan

Signatures and Approval

Prepared:

"""---Date:~6

LARRY SUTTON, Assistant Director, Risk Management

Chair of the National Emergency Medical Short-Haul Working Team

Reviewed: Washington Office, Aviation Branch Chiefs Date: April 2015

• Airworthiness

• Aviation Operations

• Pilot Standardization

• Aviation Business Operations

• Aviation Safety Management Systems

Reviewed: Regional Aviation Officers Council- Chair Date: April 2015

Approved:

PAULLINSEfor Date:04/21/15

ART HINAMAN, Assistant Director, Aviation

This Short-Haul Plan sets forth the objectives, procedures, and standards for the Emergency

Medical Short-Haul program in the USDA Forest Service. The following standards and procedures for an Emergency Medical Short-Haul program will be incorporated into the Short-

Haul Plan.

Chair Co-Chair

Larry Sutton

Fire Operations Risk Mgt. Specialist

Washington Office

Don Campbell

National Rappel Specialist

Washington Office

Vince Welbaum

National Helicopter Ops. Specialist

Washington Office

Eric Shambora

Aviation Risk Management

Washington Office

John Rollens

National Aviation Mgr.

National Park Service

Aaron Schoolcraft

Regional Aviation Officer

Pacific Northwest Region

Jennifer Symonds

FAM Medical Officer

Washington Office

Kim Christensen

NGACC Operations

Washington Office

John Giller

NIMO Operations

Washington Office

Chair

David Crumb

Helicopter Operations Spec

Northern Rockies Region

Washington Office- Seth A. Weber

National Short-Haul Operations Specialist

Region 1- David Crumb

Helicopter Operations Specialist

Region 3- Margaret McDonald

Helicopter Operations Specialist

Region 5- Sean Aidukas

Helicopter Operations Specialist

Region 8- Scott Fry

Helicopter Operations Specialist

Co-Chair

Curtis Coots

Forest Fire Management Officer

Region 5 Mendocino NF

Region 2- Kris Paxson

Monument Helitack Supt.

Region 4- Currently Vacant

Region 6- Eric Scholl