Reqmnts for helicpter operation ?

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FOLLOW

Communication
It is important that adequate information is exchanged between the helicopter and the vessel and they are thoroughly understood. This would be possible only when a direct radio link is established between the ship and helicopter. This is usually accomplished with the helicopter equipped with the marine VHF FM radio able to transmit and receive on at least Channel 16 and preferably on two other two working channels. Unless other arrangements have been agreed upon in advance, the ship should monitor VHF Channel 16 or pre--designated SAR frequency for the arrival of the helicopter.
Evacuation
Evacuation by Helicopter is undertaken depending upon the nature of casualty,the prevailing condition and the availability of the space onboard for winch operations and landing. The mission also depends upon the capabilities and limitations of the helicopter.The safety and efficiency of the helicopter operations is greatly enhanced if the crew of the vessel. the ground party at the rescue scene and the aircrew are thoroughly briefed in advance on what is required/expected of the operations.
11.6.2 The helicopter operations include landing and winching on land, water and oil rigs/offshore installations or on the deck of the ships at sea. Landings on vessels and oilrigs at sea will normally be done on well-equipped and trained craft. Though winching by helicopter can be hazardous to the persons being hoisted/lowered, the rescue facility
and others on the scene of winching, the operations if coordinated and conducted well will certainly save lives of the casualties or personnel in distress. However, the final decision about whether it is safe to conduct the winching is subject to agreement of the pilots of the helicopter, personnel at the scene and the person in command of the rescue
facility
3 When arranging for the evacuation of a patient by helicopter or any other helicopter operations with the vessel, the following points should be considered by MRCC/MRSC/MRSSC :-
(a) Whether the ship has requested appropriate MRCC/MRSC/MRSSC for helicopter assistance.
(b) Rendezvous position to be indicated as soon as possible.
(c) If the vessel is beyond helicopter range, it must be diverted to facilitate operation.
(d) Obtain as much medical information as possible from the vessel,particularly about the patient’s mobility.
(e) Advise vessel to intimate immediately of any changes in the condition of the patient
The vessel must be advised to be ready with the following information for exchange between the ‘helicopter and the vessel’ to enable helicopter operations for the evacuation of the casualty :-
(a) Position of the ship.
(b) Course and speed to the rendezvous position.
(c) Local weather situation.
(d) Details of the ship for easy identification from the air (such as flags orange smoke signals, spotlights or daylight signalling lamps)