Experience Summary

Personal protective equipment is an important part of any prehospital clinicians outfit. In this 360-degree video, understand the functions and components of this in the context of an air ambulance pre-hospital clinician.

Clinical Context

The uniform worn by an air ambulance crew is carefully designed to provide safety, visibility, practicality, and professionalism in a highly demanding and hazardous environment. Whether operating from helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft, crew members face risks such as adverse weather, rotor wash, fire hazards, and challenging terrain. Therefore, their uniform incorporates specialised components to ensure protection and functionality during both routine operations and emergency situations.

1. Flight Suit

The flight suit is a one-piece, flame-retardant garment, typically made from fire-resistant fabrics. It provides full-body protection against fire, abrasion, and exposure to the elements. The suit is usually bright in colour—commonly red, orange, or yellow—to enhance visibility in low-light or hazardous environments, aiding in both crew identification and search-and-rescue operations if necessary.

The flight suit often features multiple pockets designed to securely carry essential equipment such as pens, notepads, trauma shears, gloves, and small medical tools.

2. High-Visibility Markings

Reflective strips and high-contrast markings are integrated into the flight suit to increase visibility during night operations or in poor weather conditions. These reflective elements are crucial when working near aircraft or at roadside or remote landing sites.

3. Safety Footwear

Air ambulance crew members wear steel-toe or composite-toe safety boots that provide protection against heavy objects, sharp debris, and slippery surfaces. The boots are designed to be durable, flame-resistant, and supportive, ensuring safety and comfort during extended periods of standing or walking on uneven terrain.

4. Protective Headgear

Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) crews typically wear flight helmets, which provide impact protection and integrated communication systems. The helmet often includes a visor for eye protection against rotor wash, dust, and debris. For fixed-wing operations, headsets with noise-cancellation and communication capabilities are essential, though helmets may not always be required.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

In addition to the standard uniform, crew members carry PPE such as medical gloves, safety glasses, and face masks, essential for infection control and personal protection during patient care. In some cases, stab-proof vests or ballistic protection may be worn, depending on the operational environment.

6. Identification and Insignia

Crew uniforms prominently display identification badges, rank insignia, and service logos, ensuring crew members are easily identifiable to patients, bystanders, and other emergency services.

Learning Outcomes

1. Understand what PPE is required if working in an air ambulance.
2. Gain some insight into what it feels like preparing to board an aircraft.
3. Experience the environment in a helicopter hanger.

External Resources

• KSS Air Ambulance