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14.2 Over Water Helicopter Interaction
Purpose
To outline the procedure for SLS services interacting with a helicopter during over-water operations.
Overview
Helicopter operations over water require clear communication, safe watercraft positioning, and coordination between SLS personnel and aircraft crew.
Watercraft may be required to support winch operations, patient transfer, search and rescue activity, or other operational tasks.
The aircraft crew has operational control of the aircraft and associated winch or aviation activity. SLS watercraft must follow aircraft crew directions where safe to do so.
Procedure
Communications
All watercraft should maintain communications with the aircraft crew on the nominated radio channel where possible.
Where radio communications are not available or are ineffective, watercraft operators should watch for aircraft crew hand signals.
Radio communications should be clear, concise, and limited to operationally necessary information.
Watercraft Positioning
When operating in support of a helicopter, powered watercraft operators should position the craft to provide the helicopter with a safe and predictable approach.
Where practicable, the powered watercraft operator should face the incoming helicopter and position the craft so the helicopter approaches from approximately the 2 o’clock position.
The operator must:
Maintain a steady and predictable heading and speed,
Avoid sudden manoeuvres unless required for safety,
Follow instructions provided by the helicopter crew or SOC,
Maintain awareness of rotor wash, downwash and reduced visibility,
Ensure loose equipment is secured, and
Modify or discontinue the interaction if conditions become unsafe.
These requirements apply to all powered SLS watercraft, including IRBs, RWCs and JRBs.
Safety Considerations
Personnel involved in over-water helicopter interaction should consider:
Rotor wash,
Reduced visibility caused by spray,
Noise and communication limitations,
Patient security,
Loose equipment,
Vessel stability,
Swimmers or other persons in the water,
Proximity to other vessels or hazards,
Fatigue and crew readiness, and
Changing wind, swell, current, and surf conditions.
Watercraft must not move under or into the aircraft operating area unless directed by the aircraft crew and safe to do so.
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This document must not be displayed, including in a patrol room, or reproduced in any form, without permission from the Lifesaving Department, Surf Life Saving SA.