(1) You must make sure precautions are taken to prevent loose objects from being caught in the downwash and flying around. Secure or remove all loose gear:
- (a) Within one hundred feet of lift and deposit areas.
- (b) In all other areas affected by rotor downwash.
- (2) You must make sure employees do not work under hovering craft, except where necessary to hook or unhook loads.
- (3) You must make sure safe access and exit, including an emergency escape route, is provided for employees who hook or unhook loads.
- (4) You must prohibit open fires in any area that could be affected by the rotor downwash.
- (5) You must make sure unauthorized people do not go within fifty feet of the helicopter when the rotor blades are turning.
(6) You must make sure all employees:
- (a) Stay in full view of the pilot, in a crouched position, when approaching or leaving a helicopter with rotating blades.
- (b) Stay away from the area behind the cockpit or cabin unless the operator authorizes them to work there.
- (7) You must take precautions to eliminate reduced visibility.
- (8) You must 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, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-829-30005, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 04-09-099, § 296-829-30005, filed 4/20/04, effective 9/1/04.]