VAI applauds FAA policy enabling OSHA-approved harnesses for human external cargo The new policy aligns aviation and workplace safety standards, supporting low-altitude utility missions such as grid maintenance and aerial saw work. Alexandria, Va. (Sep. 26, 2025) – Vertical Aviation International (VAI) welcomes the recently implemented FAA policy on fall-protection harnesses used by utility line workers when performing human external cargo (HEC) activities. The policy expands operator options to include US government–accepted harnesses that meet standards recognized by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) and accepted by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The change ensures uniformity, improving safety and supporting compliance with local, state, and federal rules. As of Sep. 8, 2025, this updated policy (PS-AIR-27/29.865) permits helicopter operators to use ANSI/ASSP Z359.11-compliant full-body harnesses for Class B human external cargo under Title 14 of the US Code of Federal Regulations Part 133. It permits operators to use these harnesses as an alternative to TSO-C167–approved harnesses when they are listed in the operator’s Rotorcraft-Load Combination Flight Manual (RLCFM). “VAI has pushed for this flexibility since 2017,” says Chris Martino, VAI’s senior director of operations and international affairs. “It improves safety, reduces friction for operators, and supports the skilled teams who keep critical infrastructure running.” The policy recognizes the wide range of helicopter missions flown at low altitudes to support public safety and infrastructure. These include power-line construction, inspection, repair, and maintenance, and aerial saw work. Each year, helicopters fly more than 40,000 hours within 400 ft. of structures—with over 25,000 of those hours in shielded areas within 50 ft. of a structure. “The FAA’s action reflects years of collaboration between our members and government,” Martino adds. What operators can do now: • Update their RLCFM to reflect the use of ANSI/ASSP Z359.11-compliant harnesses, including inspection, care, retirement, and life-limit procedures. • Verify that crew training and preflight checks match the new RLCFM language.
