NTL Record

Title A Human Factors Perspective on Human External Loads
Record ID 39768
Personal Name
Creator
Shehab, R.L.; Schlegel, Robert E.; Palmerton, D. A.
Corporate Creator University of Oklahoma. College of Engineering
Corporate
Contributor
FAA Civil Aeromedical Institute
Publisher University of Oklahoma; United States. Department of Transportation. Federal Aviation Administration
Publication Date 19980500
Language English
Abstract Title 14 part 133 of the Federal Code of Regulations (14 CFR 133) titled, "Rotorcraft External Load Operations," describes the operation and certification rules governing helicopter external load operations. Specifically, part 133.45 addresses rotorcraft operations involving human external loads (HELs) and the design of personnel lifting devices used in HEL operations. To determine if there is a need for imposing new regulations on HEL operations, the Rotorcraft Standards Directorate of the Aircraft Certification Service requested the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute to review all available accident databases to determine if HEL operations are unsafe or sufficiently problematic to warrant a change in the existing regulations. This report investigates HEL accidents, categorizes commercially available equipment used in different personnel lifting operations, and provides human-factor related recommendations affecting the use of these HEL lifting devices. A review of accident data between 1973 and 1996 from several databases did not reveal any accident trends or highlight any specific safety issues related to HEL operations. A review of commercially-available HEL equipment showed the devices were designed for either short-term, rescue-type operations or long-term, work-related activities where the user is required to remain in the device for extended periods of time. Suggestions concerning the safety, comfort, and use of HEL devices are provided, as well as recommendations that standard operating procedures, training for HEL crew members, and minimal equipment specifications be added to the current regulation.
Rosap ID dot:40467
Rosap URL https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/40467
TRT Terms Aviation safety; Comfort; Crash data; Flight personnel; Helicopters; Regulations
General Subjects Aviation; Education and Training; Law; Research; Safety and Human Factors; Vehicles and Equipment
Geographical
Coverage
Oklahoma; United States
TRIS Online
Accession No
931279
Contract Number DTFA-02-95-T-80473
Report Number DOT/FAA/AM-98/13
Resource type Tech Report
URL https://ntlrepository.blob.core.windows.net/lib/39000/39700/39768/9813.PDF
Format PDF
Database NTL Digital Repository