Section 296-45-67533. Helicopter operation.

(1) Whenever approaching or leaving a helicopter with blades rotating, all employees must remain in full view of the pilot and remain in a crouched position while within 50 feet of the helicopter. No employee can approach the rear of the helicopter unless directly authorized and directed by the pilot of such craft. All employees when operating or working within 50 feet of the helicopter with blades turning are subject to the direction of the helicopter pilot.

(2) All materials and equipment loaded in the aircraft shall be properly secured for flight.

(3) Long objects, such as shovels and hot sticks, shall be carried horizontally and below the waist to avoid contact with the aircraft rotor blades.

(4) The pilot shall ensure that all loads are safely secured to the helicopter, or in cargo baskets, and properly loaded with regard to weight and balance.

(5) Never throw anything while loading and unloading the helicopter. Thrown items may come in contact with the aircraft rotor blade, causing damage to the aircraft and possible injury to ground personnel.

(6) While in the helicopter, safety belts must remain fastened at all times except when the pilot instructs otherwise or while entering or leaving the helicopter.

(7) Smoking in the helicopter is prohibited at all times.

(8) No employee shall ride in or work under or near a helicopter with less than twenty minutes reserve fuel.

(9) No employee shall have sharp objects in their pocket or unsecured while sitting in or on the helicopter.

(10) No employee shall touch any switch, knob, instrument, or other control device in the cockpit unless specifically directed by the pilot.

(11) No employee shall obscure or otherwise obstruct the pilot's ability to visually see the instruments or flight path during flight or operation.

(12) No employee shall attempt to slow or stop the rotorcraft blades.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060 and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 16-10-081, § 296-45-67533, filed 5/3/16, effective 7/1/16; Order 76-38, § 296-45-67533, filed 12/30/76.]

RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060 and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 16-10-081, § 296-45-67533, filed 5/3/16, effective 7/1/16; Order 76-38, § 296-45-67533, filed 12/30/76.