DEFAD001A
Rig and hook up loads during rotary wing external lift operations

This unit covers the competency required to assist in the preparation and conduct of single and multi point hook ups of external lift loads to rotary wing aircraft.

Application

This unit applies to personnel working within teams under direct supervision and requires individuals to follow set methods and procedures, using some discretion and judgement. Work must be completed with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail to avoid errors which could have disastrous consequences.

External loads may vary in size and weight and will be dependent on the capabilities of the helicopter being used to lift the load.


Prerequisites

Not applicable.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Prepare loads for external lift

1.1 Task details are received and confirmed with supervisor

1.2 External lift loads are assessed to identify preparation requirements

1.3 External lift loads are prepared in accordance with workplace procedures

2. Prepare for hook up operations

2.1 Individual tasks are received and confirmed with supervisor

2.2 Hook up procedures are confirmed with supervisor

2.3 Hook up site is prepared in accordance with workplace procedures

2.4 Appropriate safety equipment is selected and used during hook up operations

3. Hook up loads for external lift

3.1 Communication is maintained with supervisor for duration of hook up operations

3.2 Aircraft is earthed to discharge static electricity in accordance with workplace procedures, prior to attaching loads

3.3 External loads are hooked up to rotary wing aircraft in accordance with supervisor directions and organisational procedures

3.4 Successful hook up is communicated to supervisor and site is cleared

3.5 Incident/emergency procedures are followed in the event of a malfunction

4. Maintain aerial delivery equipment

4.1 Aerial delivery equipment is inspected in accordance with workplace procedures

4.2 Operator level maintenance is carried out in accordance with workplace procedures

4.3 Faulty equipment is reported and replaced in accordance with workplace procedures

Required Skills

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit.

Required Skills

communicate within the workplace

interpret workplace manuals and publications

select and use appropriate equipment

teamwork

Required Knowledge

aircraft/airfield discipline

capabilities of organisational helicopters

duties of team members when conducting hook up operations

load preparation requirements

work health and safety (WHS) considerations when working with helicopters

Evidence Required

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Assessment must confirm the ability to:

prepare loose and packaged items for lift

select and use appropriate personal protective equipment during hook up operations

Consistency in performance

Competency should be demonstrated over time using a range of external lift loads that the individual may encounter during the normal course of their work.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Context of assessment

Competency should be assessed in the workplace or in a simulated environment.

Specific resources for assessment

Access is required to:

equipment including:

rotary wing aircraft and crew

load items

aerial delivery equipment

safety equipment

suitable area to conduct hook up operations


Range Statement

The Range Statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

External lift loads may include:

Loose items

Packaged equipment and stores

Vehicles

Preparation may include:

Packaging equipment

Rigging loads

Securing loose items

Selection and use of aerial delivery equipment, threads and cordages

Workplace procedures may include:

Australian Standards

Briefs

Doctrinal pamphlet

Duty statements

Legislative requirements

Manufacturers' handbooks, industry specifications and technical instructions

WHS regulations

Organisational policies and procedures

Procedure manuals

Relevant state/territory or federal legislation

Standard Operating Procedures

Technical and tactical procedures

Written or verbal orders

Appropriate safety equipment may include:

Personal protective equipment including:

helmet

goggles

gloves

protective clothing

static probe

Communication may include:

Hand signals

Radio communications

Verbal communications

Malfunctions may include:

Aircraft malfunction

Damage to load/aerial delivery equipment during hook up operations

Failure to attached load correctly

Aerial delivery equipment may include:

Cordage and webbing

Containers and nets

Slings

Swivels


Sectors

Not applicable.


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

Not applicable.