AMC1 SPO.OP.157 Refuelling with engine(s) and/or rotors
turning — helicopters
ED Decision 2022/005/R
OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES — NO TASK SPECIALISTS ON BOARD
Operational procedures in the OM should specify that at least the following precautions are taken:
(a) all necessary information should be exchanged in advance with the aerodrome operator, operating-site operator, and refuelling operator;
(b) the procedures to be used by crew members should be defined;
(c) the procedures to be used by the operator’s ground operations personnel that may be in charge of refuelling or assisting in emergency evacuations should be described;
(d) the operator’s training programmes for crew members and for the operator’s ground operations personnel should be described;
(e) the minimum distance between the helicopter turning parts and the refuelling vehicle or installations should be defined when the refuelling takes place outside an aerodrome or at an aerodrome where there are no such limitations;
(f) besides any rescue and firefighting services (RFFSs) that are required to be available by aerodrome regulations, an additional handheld fire extinguisher with the equivalent of 5 kg of dry powder should be immediately available and ready for use;
(g) a means for a two-way communication between the crew and the person in charge of refuelling should be defined and established;
(h) if fuel vapour is detected inside the helicopter, or any other hazard arises, refuelling/defuelling should be stopped immediately;
(i) one pilot should stay at the controls, constantly monitor the refuelling, and be ready to shut off the engines and evacuate at all times; and
(j) any additional precautions should be taken, as determined by the risk assessment.
Helicopter refuelling with rotors turning requires documented operational procedures. These procedures must include communication protocols, crew/ground personnel duties, training, safety distances, readily available fire extinguishers, continuous monitoring by a pilot, and immediate stop procedures if hazards arise. Risk assessments should determine additional precautions.
* Summary by Aviation.Bot - Always consult the original document for the most accurate information.
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