Systems and engineering consultancy Frazer-Nash has been contracted to undertake a safety assessment of the UK’s largest hypobaric chamber facility. The facility is used for training aircrew at the RAF’s Centre of Aviation Medicine.

Designed by manufacturing and design specialists Aeroform, the chamber simulates the high altitude effects experienced when flying by reducing the atmospheric pressure within the chamber. The primary purpose of the installation is to expose aircrew to the effects of high altitude, in order that they may experience and recognise the symptoms and effects of hypoxia. It is compulsory for all RAF aircrew to undertake hypobaric chamber experience during flying training; regular refresher training is also undertaken.

Frazer-Nash will be undertaking an independent safety assessment of the chamber operating procedures to ensure that they have been developed and are conducted to the latest safety standards. Because both the normal and emergency procedures are under the control of the operator, it is vital to understand whether there is a safety consequence with the clarity of the procedures and the way in which they are executed as the risks associated with hypoxia can be severe.

Exposure to simulated high altitude and the resultant hypoxia deprives the body of an adequate oxygen supply leads to a slowing of reactions. Pilots are placed under these conditions, while being closely monitored, and then asked to undertake simple tests which demonstrate the impact that the altitude changes have on the body. Frazer-Nash will be reviewing the current operating and training procedures, placing an emphasis on whether the procedures can be carried out by the operating personnel safely.

Frazer-Nash Safety Consultant, Brenda Alonso, said:
“We are very pleased to be working on such a significant project. Using our expertise in the area of safety assessment we will be undertaking a full review of the current operating and training procedures.

“Based on the results of our investigation we will then make recommendations to ensure that all possible risks associated with the training processes are mitigated. We are proud to be working on this facility as it is such an important component in the training of the UK’s future pilots.”