Training for low level helicopter operations
Wire strike is the main hazard of low level aerial operations, and a consistent cause of injury, death and destruction for crews operating in ‘Wire environments’. 6 Parks and Wildlife Rangers recently took part in a seminar covering ‘Threat and Error Management and Crew Resource Management’ for low level crews operating in a wire environment.
Threat and error management (TEM) looks at how flight crews respond to external threats and internal errors that could lead to undesired aircraft states during flight. Crew resource management (CRM) refers to the effective use of all available resources for flight crew personnel to assure a safe and efficient operation, reducing error, avoiding stress and increasing efficiency.
The course was delivered by Total Aviation Quality and provides crews with the skills and knowledge to actively manage risks encountered during low level aerial operations. It is not risk averse but teaches crew members how to identify, communicate and manage hazards associated with wire and obstructions. It allows crews to operate safely and effectively as a team at low levels and reduce the risk of wire strike. Course material is drawn from many hundreds of highly experienced pilots and crew who have attended this training and have shared their personal knowledge and experience.
It was a great opportunity for Rangers to increase their awareness, confidence and communication techniques within a potentially hazardous environment. Learning how to operate professionally as part of the crew when undertaking low level aerial operations will be invaluable for future operations.
Operating in and around helicopters is commonplace for many staff across the department. This training would be beneficial to anyone operating in these situations, no matter the level of their experience. This is not limited to staff operating in helicopters but also any ground staff that are assisting in the field.
