Helicopter Landing Area Safety

The following points should be considered when operating around an unimproved landing site:

• Always wear your personal protective equipment (PPE) when working near an operating helicopter (eye, hearing, head, etc.).
• Always get the approval of a flight crew member or the pilot before approaching an operating helicopter.
• Only approach and depart a helicopter as directed. Use a slightly crouched position. Do not run. Always keep in the pilot’s field of vision.
• Never go near the tail of helicopters.
• When loading helicopters in uneven terrain, always approach and depart from the down slope (lower) side and do not hold equipment overhead.
• Remove or secure loose articles prior to working around an operating helicopter.
• Do not reach up for or chase after loose objects.
• Blowing dust, sand, or rocks caused by the helicopter’s rotor wash can be hazardous. Institute dust abatement actions at the landing area if necessary.