Helidecks, those vital landing platforms perched atop buildings or offshore rigs, provide a critical lifeline for personnel and equipment. Ensuring their safety is paramount. While a focus is placed on helicopter operations themselves, a sometimes overlooked but equally important element is helideck netting.
The Role of Helideck Netting
Helideck netting serves as a crucial safety barrier, designed to:
- Contain Debris: In the unfortunate event of a mishap, netting captures loose objects, tools, or baggage that could be dislodged by the helicopter’s downdraft. This prevents them from becoming dangerous projectiles or injuring personnel on the helideck or below.
- Detention in Case of Main Rotor Blade Separation: A catastrophic event would be a main rotor blade separation. The netting system is designed to decelerate and contain a separated blade, minimising potential damage to the helideck and surrounding structures.
- Personnel Safety: Netting can also prevent accidental falls from the helideck, providing an additional layer of security for personnel working or transiting the area.
Choosing the Right Helideck Netting
Selecting the appropriate helideck netting requires careful consideration of several factors:
- Net Strength and Material: The netting needs to be strong enough to withstand the impact of debris or a blade separation.
- Net Configuration: The netting system should be designed for the specific helideck size and helicopter types it will service. This may involve customized configurations to accommodate the landing area and potential hazards.
- Deployment System: The netting deployment system should be swift and reliable, allowing for rapid installation and retrieval during helicopter operations. Different systems utilize winches, poles, or davits depending on the helideck configuration and operational needs.
- Corrosion Resistance: Helideck netting is exposed to the harsh elements, so it must be resistant to corrosion from salt water, UV rays, and chemicals.
- Ease of Maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial for ensuring the netting’s functionality. Choose a system that allows for easy checks and cleaning.
Compliance and Regulations
Helideck netting must comply with stringent international regulations set forth by bodies like the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (IOGP). These regulations define specifications for net strength, deployment mechanisms, fire retardancy, and signage. Partnering with a reputable netting supplier who adheres to these guidelines is essential.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations
While the core function of helideck netting is paramount, there are additional factors to consider:
- Visibility: The netting should not significantly obstruct pilot visibility during landing or takeoff. Opt for high-viz colored netting or netting with incorporated lighting systems for low-light conditions.
- Weight Restrictions: Helicopter weight limitations exist for landing platforms. Choose a lightweight netting solution that minimizes additional burden.
- Storage: A designated and secure storage space should be available for the netting system when not in use.
Partnering with a Helideck Netting Specialist
For optimal helideck safety, partnering with a company specializing in helideck netting solutions is vital. Look for a provider who offers:
- Expertise: A proven track record in designing, manufacturing, and supplying helideck netting systems that meet all regulatory requirements.
- Customization: The ability to design a netting system tailored to your specific helideck configuration and operational needs.
- Installation and Maintenance Services: Support for installation, training, and ongoing maintenance of your helideck netting system.
Conclusion:Â Investing in Helideck Netting – A Commitment to Safety
Effective helideck netting is not an afterthought; it’s an essential investment in safety. By prioritizing the right netting system, you can create a perimeter of protection for your helideck, personnel, and surrounding structures.
Partner with FSE SAFE for Helideck Netting Solutions
At FSE SAFE, we understand the critical role of safety in helideck operations. We offer a comprehensive range of high-quality helideck netting solutions, designed and manufactured to meet the most stringent international regulations. Our team of experts can help you select the perfect netting system for your helideck, ensuring optimal safety and compliance.
Contact us today to discuss your helideck netting requirements and experience the difference a commitment to safety can make.