Rotorcraft
FAA Revises Human External Cargo Fall Protection Policy
ANSI standards will impose a more uniform framework
Airbus H145 aerial work
An Airbus H145 during a powerline aerial work mission © Airbus Helicopters

The FAA is clarifying which fall protection standards should apply to human external cargo (HEC) helicopter operations in a draft revised policy statement. HEC operations include line workers repairing or inspecting powerlines from a hoist line or while standing on skid structures of hovering helicopters or carriage of people via hoist.

According to VAI, “This decision ensures uniformity, enhances safety, and promotes operational compliance with existing local, state, and federal safety rules.”