The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has launched the sixth edition of its renowned Guide to Helicopter/Ship Operations, a trusted reference that has been at the forefront of safe maritime aviation practices for nearly 50 years.
Updated with insights from experts in maritime and aviation, including the Civil Aviation Authority, International Maritime Pilots’ Association, and Japanese Shipowners’ Association, this edition strengthens the legacy of the guide as a practical, up-to-date resource for safe helicopter/ship interactions.
Who Benefits from the Guide?
The publication is essential for:
- Ships’ Masters, Officers, and Crew: To ensure safe on-board operations.
- Marine Pilots and Helicopter Operators: To coordinate with ship teams.
- Shoreside Teams: To develop operating procedures for diverse helicopter activities.
Key Updates in the Sixth Edition
- Risk Assessment Framework:
- Tailored for both landing and winching operations to enhance safety protocols.
- Aide-Memoire for Responsible Officers:
- Offers clear guidance during high-pressure operations.
- Toolbox Talk Template:
- Supports preoperative briefings for better communication and preparedness.
- Chronological Safety Checklist:
- Streamlines shipboard tasks for helicopter operations.
- Enhanced Role Clarifications:
- Improves coordination between ship and helicopter teams.
- Updated Terminology:
- Aligns with current industry standards.
Integration with E-Learning
The guide now complements the Helicopter Operation Procedures for Ships e-learning course via the ICS Academy. This integration ensures crews have access to comprehensive training tools, aligning onboard practices with e-learning resources.
User-Friendly Features
The reorganized structure makes the guide:
- Easy to navigate.
- Efficient for locating relevant information.
- Practical for immediate implementation of best practices.
ICS Perspective
Gregor Stevens, ICS Senior Manager – Nautical, emphasized:
“The new edition builds on nearly five decades of safe practices. By streamlining processes and introducing new tools, we’re equipping personnel – both on ships and in the air – to operate with confidence and clarity.”
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Source: International Chamber of Shipping
