Civil Aviation Act, 2009 (Act No. 13 of 2009)

Regulations

Civil Aviation Regulations, 2011

Part 138 : Air Ambulance Operations

138.05.4 Patient restraints, stretchers and incubators
Purchase cart Previous page Return to chapter overview Next page

 

(1)The owner or operator of an aircraft engaged in an air ambulance operation shall not operate the aircraft unless such aircraft is equipped with—
(a)an approved restraining strap for each patient; and
(b)an additional restraining device for a child or small adult who will not be adequately restrained with the restraining strap referred to in paragraph (a), if applicable;
(c)an incubator, which is properly secured in position, should an incubator be needed for the flight; and
(d)a stretcher and mounting system which allows for rapid detachment from the base unit.

 

(2)The stretcher or incubator shall be positioned such as—
(a)to allow medical personnel a clear view of, and access to the patient to perform monitoring and therapeutic intervention as needed;
(b)not to block access to normal and emergency exits;
(c)not to interfere with any operation of any aircraft controls; and
(d)not to restrict access to any emergency equipment.

 

(3)The attachment of the stretcher or incubator to the aircraft structure shall allow its rapid detachment for evacuation. The stretcher shall be certified for use in an aircraft by the manufacturer or any other recognised certification body which is acceptable to the Director: Provided that all recommendations by such manufacturer or certification body shall be implemented and adhered to for the stretcher to be acceptable to the Director.

 

(4)All restraint systems to be used in the aircraft shall be approved by the Director. In cases where the certification referred to in subregulation (3) cannot be obtained, the operator shall obtain approval from the Director for the use of such stretcher.

 

(5)All other restraint systems to be used in the aircraft shall be approved by the Director.

 

(6)The operator shall ensure that suitable measures are taken to protect the pilot, aircraft controls, communication and navigation equipment from any interference by the patient, medical personnel or medical equipment on board the aircraft during flight or during loading and unloading.