California Code of Regulations
Title 8 - Industrial Relations
Division 1 - Department of Industrial Relations
Chapter 4 - Division of Industrial Safety
Subchapter 4 - Construction Safety Orders
Appendix C - Helpful Construction Methods
Plate C-36-a - Safe Practices-Helicopters

1. Do not approach or leave a helicopter while its engines are running unless in a crouched position and the pilot or pilot's designee signals that it is safe to do so.

2. Always approach and leave the helicopter in plain view of the pilot or as directed by the pilot's designee; never from the rear.

3. Approach and leave the helicopter on a level with the craft or a lower level, never from or to higher ground than that of the helicopter.

4. Wear goggles and head protection with chin strap under the chin when in the vicinity of an operating helicopter. Loose-fitting clothing likely to flap in the downwash and possibly be snagged on the hoist line shall not be worn.

5. Load all cargo and secure it to the satisfaction of the pilot or pilot's designee.

6. Do not put tag lines on sling loads without the pilot's or pilot's designee's permission and limit their numbers, their placement, and their lengths to the pilot's satisfaction.

7. Do not place explosives, flammables, or other dangerous materials on board any aircraft without the pilot's knowledge.

8. Carry all materials to or from the helicopter in a horizontal position not above waist level.

9. Do not smoke within 50 feet of a helicopter, fuel storage, or fueling operation.

10. Do not stand directly under a hovering helicopter longer than necessary to hook-up or unhook the load.

11. Always watch the helicopter, sling load, hook, or bottom end of the cable to avoid being hit.

12. Know the escape procedure at each operation site.

13. Keep landing and hovering areas clear of loose and lightweight materials.

14. Notify the person in charge of the project when erecting a suspended line, tower or other navigational hazard.

15. Turn off radio transmitter when in vicinity of explosives or explosive loading operations.

16. Passengers transported by helicopter shall be instructed to:

17. When performing as a crew member in external operations, listen to and be familiar with the normal sounds emitted by the helicopter in flight so that you will have the earliest notice of trouble and can avoid dangerous exposure.

18 When visibility is reduced by dust or other conditions, ground personnel shall exercise special caution to keep clear of main and stabilizing rotors.