Some important changes for the 2021 season ahead
As we eagerly ready ourselves for the delayed start to the 2021 PSSA flying event season (Great Orme 22/23rd May) I wanted to highlight some small, but none-the-less important alterations to our usual ‘Fly for Fun’ format. These changes will enable us to operate (and be seen to operate) our events in a safe and considered manner.
Earlier this month we updated our PSSA Event Risk Assessment through the BMFA which considers the way we manage our meetings on the slope, focussing not only on the latest CAA/BMFA Article 16 Exemption regulations but also on the staging of an outdoor group event under current Covid-19 guidelines.
If you are flying with the PSSA this season please take a few minutes to familiarise yourself with our Risk Assessment which can be found on our website HERE.
https://www.pssaonline.co.uk/information/pssa-risk-assesment/
Here’s a categorised summary of the changes for our events this season (and whilst operating under Covid-19 guidelines);
CAA/BMFA Article 16 Exemption
- All participants (including overseas visitors) must demonstrate they have BMFA (or equivalent) insurance and that they are registered with a DMARES competency certificate
- All models operated with a flying weight over 250g must have a valid Operator ID number displayed
- We will increase the use of warning signage for public awareness around LZ
- We will nominate Event Marshalls to actively manage the flight line and LZ throughout the event
COVID-19 – Manage Capacity
- All attendees must complete and submit a Track and Trace form for each day in attendance at event
- We will limit the number of models in the pits at any time (max 2 per person) and the number of pilots flying at any one time (max 6 pilots) to avoid over-crowding
- No Group photos
COVID-19 – Manage Contact
- All attendees should bring with them hand sanitizer – use throughout the day and before and after any contact with any shared equipment (eg Peg Board or shared Transmitters)
- Wear single use disposable gloves when handling other peoples models or equipment (eg assisting with rigging or launching)
Our Risk Assessment is a live document which can be up-issued and altered in line with our requirements and the current guidance we are working within.
Please contact us at webmaster@pssaonline.co.uk with any questions or concerns on this topic, we want to do all we can to ensure we stage our events in a safe and compliant manner.
Many thanks
Phil Cooke