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PMS 530-1

PMS 530-1

PMS 530-1

NWCG Standards for Aviation Risk Management, PMS 530

NWCG Aviation Risk Management Workbook, PMS 530-1

How to Use Workbook

IMPORTANT: How To Use Workbook

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Fixed Wing Risk Assessments

Helicopter Risk Assessments

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Risk Assessments

Other Risk Assessments

 

Hot Loading

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Airtanker Base Risk Assessments

Facilities | Hot Loading | Operations | Simultaneous Fueling and Loading

SYSTEM:  Airtanker Base, Hot Loading

Sub-System Hazards Pre-Mitigation Mitigation Post-Mitigation

Probability

Severity

Risk Level

Probability

Severity

Risk Level
Training Not all mixers and loaders are adequately trained and qualified

Possible

Critical

High

 Ensure that all personnel who will be loading aircraft are trained in hot loading procedures, with refresher each year. Provide simulation training for all mixers and loaders (agency and contractor) together throughout the season. Provide adequate briefings for all personnel prior to hot loading any aircraft.

Unlikely

Moderate

Medium

Base not approved for hot loading

Possible

Critical

High

 Ensure base operations plan includes a supplement for hot loading of retardant and is approved at the appropriate level, refer to SABO. Ensure all personnel are trained on hot loading procedures.

Unlikely

Moderate

Medium
Unfamiliar with aircraft to be loaded

Likely

Critical

Extremely High

 Specific type of aircraft will shut down prior to the first load at a new base each year. All personnel involved in the loading of aircraft will receive an orientation briefing for that aircraft to include proper hand signal use, and aircraft loading port valve connection and operation.

Possible

Negligible

Low
Aircraft Dangers of walking into turning propellers, or too close to jet engines

Likely

Catastrophic

Extremely High

 Never walk through a propeller arc, even when engine is shut down. Do not walk under the wing at any time. Operate within the safety area around engines. Only load retardant on the side of the aircraft with non-running engines. Stay behind the wings of SEATs and S2s at all times. FWPT will be posted at front of aircraft where they can see all running engines, loaders, and aircrew.

Unlikely

Critical

Medium
High noise levels working near running engines

Almost Certain

Moderate

High

Only load aircraft on the side opposite running engines. All personnel should wear noise cancelling hearing protection while hot loading retardant. Only essential personnel allowed on the ramp during hot loading operations. Train on proper hand signals to be used during hot loading operations. Take breaks away from noise.

Unlikely

Critical

Medium
Velocity of exhaust/prop wash from running engines (thrust required for breakaway)

Likely

Moderate

High

 Wear approved eye protection. Clear area before pilot takes engine out of ground idle. Ensure no one is behind engines when aircraft starts to move. Ensure Foreign Object Debris (FOD) walks occur on regular basis, so debris is not blown at personnel when aircraft starts moving. Secure loose objects within vicinity.

Unlikely

Negligible

Low
Aircraft can jump chocks while under ground idle

Possible

Critical

High

 Pilot will remain at controls at all times during hot loading operations. FWPT will be positioned at front of aircraft during loading operations and maintain visual communication with both loaders and pilot.

Rare

Moderate

Medium
Heat from running engine(s)

Likely

Critical

High

 Only load aircraft on the side opposite running engines. Only essential personnel on the ramp during hot loading operations. Train on proper hand signals to be used during hot loading operations. Operate within the safety area around engines. Take breaks away from heat.

Unlikely

Moderate

Medium
Human Factors Fatigue of ground personnel

Likely

Critical

Extremely High

 Request additional staffing during times of high fire activity. Take breaks often, stay hydrated, ensure adequate rest facilities are available for all ground personnel. Ensure adequate rest between shifts.

Possible

Moderate

Medium
Heat stress

Likely

Critical

Extremely High

 Utilize additional loaders/FWPTs during high activity. Recognize signs of heat stress at all levels and take action immediately. Stay hydrated, especially prior to beginning shift. Ensure adequate rest between shifts.

Unlikely

Moderate

Medium
Acceptance of high-risk activities as normal

Likely

Catastrophic

Extremely High

 Emphasize importance of situational awareness as a means to recognizing risk. Provide risk management training for all personnel. Ensure thorough briefings/debriefings with special attention to risk management and preventing future accidents. Utilize risk assessments, JHAs, SMS, GARs etc. to assist in mitigating risk.

Unlikely

Catastrophic

High
Distracted personnel (aircrew, loaders, FWPT/RAMP)

Possible

Critical

High

 Focus on task and identified role while hot loading.  Maintain situational awareness at all times. Do not distract others from their assigned task. Ensure communications are occurring at all phases of hot loading; use hand signals.

Unlikely

Critical

Medium

 

Download the word version (docm) of this information to use with the Risk Assessment Worksheet macro.

 

 

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NWCG Latest Announcements

Equipment Advisory 26-001: Potential Front Driveline Joint Failure on 2018 and Earlier Ram Pickups

Date:  July 10, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Equipment and Technology Subcommittee

The Logistics/Equipment Management Committee (LMC) has released Equipment Advisory 26-001: Potential Front Driveline Joint Failure on 2018 and Earlier Ram Pickups. This advisory highlights multiple U.S. Forest Service regions reporting front driveline joint failure incidents.

This advisory recommends firefighters and fire managers to: 

  • Follow all Ram-issued inspection, maintenance, and service guidance for front driveline joints. 
  • Consider installing a driveline loop. 
  • Coordinate with fleet managers and service providers to determine the most appropriate driveline loop kit for each pickup.

For further details, please refer to the complete advisory.

References:

Equipment Advisory 26-001: Potential Front Driveline Joint Failure on 2018 and Earlier Ram Pickups

Technical Service Bulletin: 03-002-21

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Date:  July 9, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG Staff

NWCG is excited to announce the publication of the NWCG Standard Operating Procedures, PMS 900.

The new publication establishes general, consistent, and uniform standards for conducting business with the National Wildfire Coordinating Group.

References:

NWCG Standard Operating Procedures, PMS 900

Quarter Four Materials for the 2025-2026 Wildland Fire Leadership Campaign Now Available

Date:  July 8, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Leadership Development Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that Fourth Quarter materials for the 2025/2026 Wildland Fire Leadership Campaign are now available. This annual initiative offers all students of leadership and wildland fire management an opportunity to engage with essential leadership skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively in dynamic environments.

Quarter Four materials focus on Leadership Level 4: Leader of Leaders (Provide Direction). Leadership Level 4 is where you are setting the conditions for others to do things well, even when you are not present. This quarter focuses on equipping experienced leaders with skills to provide direction, build trust across teams, and foster strong decision making. 

References:

2025/2026 NWCG Leadership Campaign - Leadership Levels

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Leadership Development Subcommittee

2026 Week of Remembrance

Date:  June 30, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: 6 Minutes for Safety Subcommittee

As we approach the 2026 Week of Remembrance (WOR), June 30–July 6, we dedicate this time to reflect on past incidents from 2016 and honor the fallen through learning. Since its inception in 2014, WOR has honored wildland firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while encouraging critical discussions that reinforce lessons learned.

Throughout the week, we encourage thoughtful and generative conversations that promote a culture of continuous learning and safety.

References:

2026 Week of Remembrance: Letter to Leadership

Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center