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180 Healthcare: Hospital Heliport Safety
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Fueling Hazards

Helipad workers can be exposed to fuel-related hazards such as fires and explosions.

Fire extinguishers should be located adjacent to the helipad to help prevent fires and/or explosions.

Sources of ignition, such as sparks or matches, can ignite vapors during refueling. Under no circumstances should smoking be permitted in the helipad or helicopter refueling area. Additionally, fire extinguishers and other firefighting equipment should be located adjacent to the helipad. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards for heliports (418) establish the rescue and firefighting criteria to be followed.

Possible Solutions

Here are some possible solutions to help prevent dangerous fueling hazards:

  • No smoking should be allowed in the helipad area.
  • A grounding cable should be attached to the helicopter while fueling. This will prevent sparks from occurring.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

1-5. What are possible sources of ignition that can ignite vapors during refueling?