Unit of competency details

Unit Descriptor 

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 of the Unit 

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.

Employability Skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

Pre-requisite Unit /s 

Nil

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a Unit of Competency.

Performance Criteria describe the required performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the Required Skills and Knowledge and/or the Range Statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the Evidence Guide.

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 AND KNOWLEDGE 

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
• occupational health and safety (OH&S) considerations when working with helicopters

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

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 ofexternal 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

OH&S 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

Co-requisite Unit /s 

Nil