FORCE 6 HARS 2.0 Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Specialist Harness User Manual
- June 5, 2024
- FORCE 6
Table of Contents
FORCE 6 HARS 2.0 Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Specialist
Harness
Application
The HARS 2.0 is intended to be used in water rescue and helicopter hoist
operations by trained professionals. The HARS 2.0 can be used in the following
environments:
- Swiftwater (aerated moving water)
- Open water (flood water)
- Ocean / Surf
Flotation
The integrated flotation assembly provides 20lbs (9kg) of flotation. The HARS
2.0 can function as a full body harness independent of the flotation
provision. The removable sealed foam assemblies allow for cleaning and
serviceability.
Sizing Chart
Universal / One Size Fits All:
Chest Range – 30” – 54” (76cm – 137cm)
Donning Instructions
The HARS 2.0 is designed to fit a wide range of sizes. The upper portion can be donned via side entry or by pulling the vest portion over the shoulders. Position the waist belt near the top of hips and adjust other straps accordingly. Fasten the leg loops and make sure that all the side straps are fastened. All points of adjustment should be made so that the assembly provides for a snug fit. The tail end of adjustment straps should be properly secured. For optimal function, it is important that all adjustments be made prior to use.
Attachment Points and Compatibility
The HARS 2.0 features a multitude of attachment points allowing the user to complete various task. These include:
- The waist attachment element (A) can be utilized for positioning (rappel) or for securing travel restraint lanyards.
- The sternal (delta link) attachment element (B) suspends the wearer in an upright positioning and is well suited for helicopter operations. Make sure that both sternal lifting loops are secured to the delta link prior to lifting. The loops can be stowed in the zippered pocket when not in use.
- The shoulder connection elements (C) should only be used in pairs and are intended for victim retrieval via the use of a capture strap (CMC Derby Strap).
- The dorsal connection element (D) suspends the wearer in a forward leaning positioning and can be used for helicopter operations when warranted. The D-ring can be tucked under the outer panel when not in use.
- The rear attachment element (E) is intended for fall restraint applications. Suspension via the rear attachment element should be avoided.
To prevent roll out, only use auto-locking connectors. Verify that the
connecting hardware is compatible with the D-rings and is not susceptible to
hanging-up or binding. See Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) bulletin on
dynamic rollout
(https://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/airline_safety/safo/all_safos/media/2016/SAFO16015.pdf)
Accessories
The HARS 2.0 is approved for use with the following accessories:
- CMC Derby Strap (CMC or Force 6 part #)
- Additional flotation (reference or part #)
- Hydration bladder (reference or part #)
- Ballistic Protection System (reference or part #)
- Extrication leash (reference or part #)
- Dorsal pocket (reference or part #)
Contact Force 6 for additional information on approved accessories.
Inspection Criteria and Procedures
Inspect the HARS 2.0 according to your agency’s Aviation Life Support
Equipment(ALSE) Program. The HARS 2.0 should be inspected for serviceability
prior to placing it in service and after each use. At a minimum the equipment
should be inspected every 12 months. The HARS 2.0 should be thoroughly
inspected by a qualified and trained individual consistent with ALSE standard
for inspection of life safety equipment. The person performing the inspection
should record the date, the results, as well as the date of first use, name of
users and any other pertinent information necessary to keep accurate track of
the equipment’s usage history in the equipment log. Each user should be
briefed in equipment inspection and should inspect the equipment before each
use. When inspecting the HARS 2.0, check the webbing for cuts, worn or frayed
areas, broken fibers, soft or hard spots, discoloration, or melted fibers.
Inspect the foam by compressing lightly. If it feels hard, brittle or broken,
the foam components should be replaced. Check the stitching for pulled
threads, abrasion, or breaks. Check the hardware for damage, sharp edges, and
improper operation. If any of the above is noted, or if the harness has been
subjected to shock loads, fall loads, or abuse other than normal use, remove
it from service and destroy it. If there is any doubt about the serviceability
of the equipment, remove the equipment from service and destroy it. The
service life of equipment depends greatly on the type of use and the
environment of use.
Maximum Lifespan
Force 6 recommends a maximum service life of 10 years from the date of
manufacture.
Cleaning
Following immersion in salt water, the HARS 2.0 should be rinsed in fresh water. If the HARS 2.0 becomes soiled, it can be washed in warm water with a mild detergent that is safe for use with nylon and polyester.
- Dry out of direct sunlight. Do not dry in an automatic dryer. Minor or localized contamination can be treated using an agent that is safe for use on nylon and polyester products. Following decontamination, wash the harness following standard cleaning procedures.
- In the event of severe bio-hazard contamination, wash in warm water with a mild detergent that is safe for use with nylon and polyester, isolate the harness and contact Force 6 for guidance.
- Inspect the HARS 2.0 according to your agency’s Aviation Life Support Equipment (ALSE) Program. The HARS 2.0 should be inspected for serviceability prior to placing it in service and after each use.
- At a minimum the equipment should be inspected every 12 months. The HARS 2.0 should be thoroughly inspected by a qualified and trained individual consistent with ALSE standard for inspection of life safety equipment.
- The person performing the inspection should record the date, the results, as well as the date of first use, name of users and any other pertinent information necessary to keep accurate track of the equipment’s usage history in the equipment log. Each user should be briefed in equipment inspection and should inspect the equipment before each use.
- When inspecting the HARS 2.0, check the webbing for cuts, worn or frayed areas, broken fibers, soft or hard spots, discoloration, or melted fibers. Inspect the foam by compressing lightly. If it feels hard, brittle or broken, the foam components should be replaced. Check the stitching for pulled threads, abrasion, or breaks.
- Check the hardware for damage, sharp edges, and improper operation. If any of the above is noted, or if the harness has been subjected to shock loads, fall loads, or abuse other than normal use, remove it from service and destroy it. If there is any doubt about the serviceability of the equipment, remove the equipment from service and destroy it.
- The service life of equipment depends greatly on the type of use and the environment of use.
Maximum Lifespan
Force 6 recommends a maximum service life of 10 years from the date of
manufacture.
Cleaning
Following immersion in salt water, the HARS 2.0 should be rinsed in fresh
water. If the HARS 2.0 becomes soiled, it can be washed in warm water with a
mild detergent that is safe for use with nylon and polyester. Dry out of
direct sunlight. Do not dry in an automatic dryer. Minor or localized
contamination can be treated using an agent that is safe for use on nylon and
polyester products. Following decontamination, wash the harness following
standard cleaning procedures. In the event of severe bio-hazard contamination,
wash in warm water with a mild detergent that is safe for use with nylon and
polyester, isolate the harness and contact Force 6 for guidance.
Maintenance and Storage Considerations
The HARS 2.0 should be kept away from acids, alkalis, exhaust emissions, rust
and strong chemicals. Avoid storage in areas where chemical vapors may exist.
Discontinue use of product if it has come in contact with any of the above
listed or any suspect chemical agents. Do not expose the HARS 2.0 to flame or
high temperatures. as it could melt or burn and fail if exposed to flame or
high temperatures. Avoid storing in humid environments when possible air,
particularly where dissimilar metals are stored together. Avoid stacking
heaving objects atop the HARS 2.0 as it may damage the flotation assembly.
Repair Work and Alterations
All repair work or alterations must be conducted by Force 6. Unauthorized
modifications the HARS 2.0 will void the warranty and will release Force 6
from liability.
Inspection Log
| Date | Inspected By | Pass | Fail | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
The products offered for sale by Force 6 are intended for use in rescue operations and survival. Inherent to all rescue and survival environments is an increased risk of injury and/or possible death to an individual or group of individuals. The equipment offered by Force 6 is intended to aid the professional rescuer(s) and/or survival victim(s). However, the risk of injury or death cannot be completely eliminated or foreseen. Equipment training, maintenance and continual reviews of user proficiency is vital to the proper and safe use of all rescue and survival equipment. It is the responsibility of the purchasing and end-user organization or individual to:
- Determine the suitability of equipment for the selected application.
- Define the operational procedures and safety guidelines associated with the proper utilization, maintenance (including service life) and storage of the rescue and survival equipment.
- Ensure that all individuals are thoroughly trained and familiarized with the intended purpose, correct use and function, and serviceability of the equipment.
- Ensure that the equipment is properly maintained, inspected, and ready for use at all times.
- Changes to the configuration of or modifications to Force 6 products are not authorized by Force 6 and are not recommended.