(OIAC HLG) – Minutes 18 November 2009

“Simon Webb had provided members with a short brief outlining the possible benefits of Compressed Air Foam Systems (CAFS) for NUI helidecks prior to the meeting. This explained that CAFS is a system which injects compressed air into the foam solution to generate a product having a much tighter, denser bubble structure than standard foam solutions, allowing deeper, more effective foam penetration. CAA allows small, special category aerodromes to use CAFS and is keen to see its use extended to other aviation sectors where there are proven safety advantages – it is envisaged the system may have potential application and benefits for existing NUIs. CAA has funds set aside for a full-scale fire testing programme to address issues at UK licensed aerodromes but is looking to the offshore industry to consider sponsoring an extension to the test programme to allow its potential to address NUI FFE issues to be fully assessed.”