WAC 296-829-30005   Keep landing and deposit areas safe.  

     You must:

     (1) Make sure precautions are taken to prevent loose objects from being caught in the downwash and flying around.

     • Secure or remove all loose gear:

     – Within one hundred feet of lift and deposit areas.

     – In all other areas affected by rotor downwash.

     (2) Make sure employees do not work under hovering craft, except where necessary to hook or unhook loads.

     (3) Make sure safe access and exit, including an emergency escape route, is provided for employees who hook or unhook loads.

     (4) Prohibit open fires in any area that could be affected by the rotor downwash.

     (5) Make sure unauthorized people do not go within fifty feet of the helicopter when the rotor blades are turning.

     (6) Make sure all employees:

     • Stay in full view of the pilot, in a crouched position, when approaching or leaving a helicopter with rotating blades.

     • Stay away from the area behind the cockpit or cabin unless the operator authorizes them to work there.

     (7) Take precautions to eliminate reduced visibility.

     (8) Make sure ground personnel take special care to stay clear of rotors when visibility is reduced by dust or other conditions.



[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. 04-09-099, § 296-829-30005, filed 4/20/04, effective 9/1/04.]