Health and Safety

Should we be this close to the roc….Health and Safety

2UKSEDS Rocketry Training Day 2013, Sheffield University

On the United Kingdom Rocketry Association (UKRA) website you can find their safety code which cover most things you need to know…and yes it does tell you how far back you should stand when launching a rocket. http://www.ukra.org.uk/docs/Safety_Code_V51_2010.pdf

Here are a few important exerts

http://www.nar.org/NARmrsc.html This is the National Association of Rocketry safety code which is sweet and short

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3UKSEDS Rocketry Training Day 2013, Sheffield University

2.1 The Rocket 2.1.1 Rocket Components / Materials All rockets flown under this safety code shall be made of a minimum quantity of materials that posses suitable structural rigidity to withstand the flight stresses expected for a given rocket flight.

The Safety Officer has the right to decide, prior to a flight, that a given rocket vehicle is constructed in such a way that it is unlikely to withstand the stresses of flight and therefore prohibit the flight from taking place.

In addition to the right to cancel any flight, the Safety Officer has the right to decide that a rocket is unflightworthy for the proposed power. This may be due to the rocket requiring additional structural reinforcement or the utilisation of a less powerful motor. It could also be due to the rocket being of too heavyweight a construction to be flown safely.

The Safety Officer also has the right to decide that the rocket is constructed in such a way that it must be classed as Experimental, see section 5 below.

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4UKSEDS Rocketry Training Day 2013, Sheffield University

2.1.2 Stability Proper design procedures and tests must be undertaken to ensure the rocket’s stability during flight until recovery devices are enabled. For passive aerodynamically stabilised rockets (fixed fins) the RSO must be satisfied as to the stability of the rocket. The minimum static stability margin is between 1 calibre stable (the CP should be behind the CG by 1 body diameter). Flyers should be aware of overly stable rockets weather cocking and that the relationship between the CP and the CG changes during motor burn.

2.1.3 Structural Safety The RSO must be satisfied that the rocket is flight worthy and sufficiently robust to survive launch, aerodynamic, and recovery system loads. Particular attention must be paid to recovery and fin attachment.

2.1.4 Recovery Devices All rockets must use a recovery system that will return the rocket safely to the ground so it may be flown again. Rockets will use "flame-resistant recovery wadding" if wadding is required by the design of the rocket.

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How close do you think we should be to a rocket when it launches ?

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• Rockets are pointy, so be careful. • Hobby knifes are regularly used in model rocket

constructions. So make sure you know how to use one properly.

• When using glues follow the guidelines included and be aware of any hazard symbols.

• In some scratch build projects and high powered rocketry more advanced tools and machinery maybe be used so ensure you have been properly trained.

Basics…like primary school basics

8UKSEDS Rocketry Training Day 2013, Sheffield University

Storing and Handling motors.• Keep in a secure wood lined container• Store in cool dry places • Keep away from naked flames • Do not take them apart or modify• Follow the instructions as stated on the packaging

Motors

9UKSEDS Rocketry Training Day 2013, Sheffield University

• Never modify or try to dismantle rocket motors.• After you launch make sure you are aware of where it will land.• Do not attempt to get a rocket out of a high object if it may be dangerous

to do so.• Do not launch a rocket near a military instillation. For obvious reasons they

might think this is an attack.• Only use rocket motors recommended by the manufacturer.• When launching stand clear or you may get burned, you should be at least

30 feet away at launches.• Wait at least 60 seconds before approaching a rocket that failed to launch.• Never launch a rocket at aircraft, people, animals or targets.• In many areas, you are not allowed to launch rockets, especially in fields,

parks, or privately owned land. Make sure you obtain a permission from the land owner.

Launching

10UKSEDS Rocketry Training Day 2013, Sheffield University

• Find a large field at least half as long and wide as the expected altitude of the rocket. Make sure there are no power-lines, trees or other obstructions.

Launch procedure

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• Set up the launch pad in the centre of the field. Don't forget to put the safety cap on the launch rod.

Launch procedure

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• Load the model rocket motor. Important: Only use the recommended motors for your rocket. Using the wrong motor could lead to physical injury or damage to your rocket.

Launch procedure

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• Keep in mind that, if you have a parachute or streamer recovery system, you should place three squares of wadding in the rocket tube if using paper wadding.

Launch procedure

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• Place the igniter in the nozzle of the rocket motor and secure it with the plug provided.

Launch procedure

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• Remove the launch rod safety cap.

Launch procedure

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• Place the rocket carefully on the launch rod and attach the electrical clips to the igniter.

Launch procedure

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• Stand back as far as the electrical cords allow and keep any spectators behind you

Launch procedure

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• Insert the safety key into the launcher and begin the countdown. At zero, press the button and watch your rocket escape the surly bonds of earth.

Launch procedure

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• Remember, if the rocket doesn't launch when you press the button, wait at least 60 seconds before approaching it. Make sure the igniter is fully inserted into the motor, check electrical connections for short circuits, and try again. If it still doesn't launch, change the motor.

Launch procedure

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• If other people are launching around you make sure to wait for the landing area to be clear before recovering your rocket. Likewise if people are recovering their rocket or are in the landing zone do not arm your launch controller till they are clear.

Launch procedure

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References

http://www.wikihow.com/Launch-a-Model-Rocket-Safely