iscover
Babcock Australasia has introduced new “down-the-wire” helmet technology across its key rescue contracts to enhance crew safety and strengthen situational awareness during high-risk aviation operations.
The helmet systems, supplied by Melbourne-based Aquaterro, are now in use by rescue crew officers in the Torres Strait as part of Babcock’s 12-year Helicopter Emergency Medical Service contract with Queensland Health. They are also deployed in Rockhampton in support of CapRescue operations.
Traditional flight helmets are essential for mid-air communication, yet rescuers often need to remove them at the scene of a winch operation to interact with patients and clinical staff.
To overcome this challenge, Babcock has adopted the compact Team Wendy Exfil LTP 2.0 helmet designed to maintain seamless connectivity while ensuring superior head protection.
“Investing in this best-in-class protective gear sets a new benchmark in aviation rescue safety at Babcock,” said Duncan Milne, Babcock Australasia aviation and critical services managing director.
“It reinforces our commitment to innovation and operational excellence for our customers while ensuring the welfare and protection of our staff.
“Our rescue crews routinely operate in high-risk environments. This new helmet system provides impact protection and maintains seamless communication throughout winch operations, maximising safety, efficiency and situational awareness for pilots and crew as they work to protect and save lives.”
The design is expected to enable crews to coordinate effectively with pilots and rescue personnel without removing their helmets. The helmets feature a headset, ballistic glasses, dust goggles and a flexible light.
The advantage is envisioned to provide critical assistance during complex operations, such as patient transfers from merchant vessels, where situational awareness is critical.
Enhanced connectivity ensures continuous access to mission-critical updates, including weather conditions, operational timing and environmental risks, helping rescuers stay alert and informed throughout operations, according to the company.
The helmets also provide additional safety by shielding rescuers from helicopter downwash and airborne debris. In addition, their ergonomic, ventilated design also enhances comfort, making them particularly effective in the tropical conditions of the Torres Strait.
Babcock is currently trialling several bespoke configurations of the helmet system with Air Ambulance Victoria’s MICA Flight Paramedics. Once a preferred model has been selected, Babcock will fund their introduction as part of its commitment to safety and operational improvement.
