Friction Testing of Helidecks

05/23/23 12:25:pm

As offshore installations continue to evolve and improve, safety remains a top priority for all stakeholders in the oil and gas industry. One crucial aspect of ensuring safety on offshore helidecks is conducting regular friction tests.
 
Friction tests on offshore helideck installations are essential to ensure that the helideck surface is safe and meets the required friction standards as specified in UKCAA CAP437. A helideck with inadequate friction can lead to accidents during landing and take-off, posing a significant risk to the lives of personnel and damage to equipment.
 
To ensure compliance with regulations and maintain safety, here are some tips to keep in mind while conducting a friction test on an offshore helideck installation:
 
Schedule regular tests: Conduct friction tests on the helideck surface periodically as recommended by the standard. The frequency of testing will depend on the regulatory requirements and the type of helideck surface.
 
Use the correct equipment: Use the correct equipment to measure the friction coefficient of the helideck surface. The Findlay Irvine Micro Grip Tester is the only CAP437 approved equipment. The equipment should be calibrated and maintained as per the manufacturer's specifications.
 
Test in dry conditions: Conduct the friction test in dry conditions to ensure accurate results. Excessive guano, wet or oily conditions can affect the friction coefficient and lead to inaccurate results.
 
Ensure proper preparation: Ensure that the helideck surface is clean and free of any contaminants before conducting the friction test. Any dirt, debris, or oil on the surface can affect the test results and lead to false readings.
 
Follow procedures: Follow the correct testing procedures as recommended by the regulatory bodies to ensure compliance and accuracy of results.
 
Conducting regular friction tests on offshore helideck installations is crucial to maintaining safety and compliance with regulations. By following the tips mentioned above, you can ensure accurate test results and prevent accidents, which is of utmost importance in the oil and gas industry.

Contact us at office@flightsafety.com.au for friction test further information.
 
#aviationsafety #helideck #frictiontest #offshoreoilandgas #oilandgas #offshoreinstallation 
#CAP437 #compliance #testing #safety #offshore

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