In a rescue role

A 4t SWL overhead crane from Street Crane Company enables trainees to simulate a helicopter ditching into the sea at Blackpool College's Fleetwood Nautical Campus (FNC).

EDM produced a module known as the helicopter underwater escape trainer (HUET) that replicates the body of a helicopter cab. FNC has a specially constructed pool where 1m waves and rain can be simulated. The crane spans the pool and side apron.

Up to four trainees, plus instructor, strap themselves in before the pod is hoisted and moved to the centre of the pool. The HUET can be lowered onto the water, immersed or immersed and rolled over.

An unusual feature of the crane is a dual coil spring that moderates the fall and lets the module be suspended over the water before release at about 1m above the water.