Helicopter escape set

Helicopter Escape Set is a safety device designed to aid in the escape and survival of personnel from helicopters that have crashed, especially into water. These sets are crucial in enhancing the survivability of occupants in the critical moments following an accident. They are commonly used by military personnel, offshore oil and gas industry workers, and in other sectors where helicopters are frequently used over water or remote areas.

Overview

A Helicopter Escape Set typically includes a combination of survival equipment designed to support an individual's escape and immediate survival needs. The primary components often consist of an Emergency Breathing System (EBS), personal locator beacon, survival suit, and sometimes a life raft. The EBS is a critical component, providing breathable air for a short period to enable the occupant to escape from a submerged helicopter.

Components

Emergency Breathing System

The Emergency Breathing System (EBS) is designed to supply the user with a limited supply of breathable air to facilitate escape from a submerged or smoke-filled cabin. EBS types vary, including rebreather systems that recycle exhaled air and compressed air systems that provide a direct supply of oxygen.

Personal Locator Beacon

A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is a compact device that, when activated, transmits a distress signal to search and rescue services. This signal greatly enhances the chances of a timely rescue by guiding rescuers to the precise location of the individual in distress.

Survival Suit

Survival suits, also known as immersion suits, are designed to protect the wearer from hypothermia when exposed to cold water. These suits are made from waterproof and insulating materials to maintain body heat in extreme conditions.

Life Raft

In some Helicopter Escape Sets, a compact, inflatable life raft is included to provide survivors with a platform to stay afloat and visible to rescuers. Life rafts are equipped with signaling devices, such as mirrors and flares, to attract attention.

Training

Proper training in the use of Helicopter Escape Sets is essential for their effectiveness. This training, often conducted in a controlled environment, simulates the conditions of a helicopter crash into water. Participants learn how to exit a submerged and overturned helicopter cabin, deploy and use the EBS, and survive until rescue.

Regulations and Standards

The design and use of Helicopter Escape Sets are governed by various international and national regulations and standards. These guidelines ensure that the equipment meets specific safety and performance criteria, providing a standardized level of protection for users.

Conclusion

Helicopter Escape Sets are a vital component of helicopter safety, especially for flights over water or remote areas. By providing essential survival equipment and enabling escape from hazardous situations, these sets significantly increase the chances of survival following a helicopter crash.

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