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INFO:
CAP owns and operates several Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) to meet unique mission requirements or needs. SPVs are those vehicles that are non-standard vehicles which are procured, designed, or modified for a specific purpose.
Operators of CAP SPVs need CAP driving privileges granted through CAP driving permissions, like all other COV operators. SPVs also require special or additional training to operate them safely and the wing is required to provide this training to approved SPV operators. Please reach out to CAP/LGT if you have any questions about this.
SPVs require maintenance for safety and their manufacture’s recommended maintenance schedule will be followed. If there is none, contact CAP/LGT for a maintenance schedule.
SPVs include but are not limited to glider winches, golf carts, utility type vehicles, and forklifts.
SPECIFIC SPV GUIDANCE:
Glider Winch
Glider winches are considered vehicles by CAP, thus falling under CAP/LG for governance. However, because they are used for the launching of gliders, oversight and policy fall directly under CAP/DO. Improper glider winch operations can be disastrous for all involved, so it is critical that every effort be made to ensure safe and correct glider winch procedures are followed. As there are so many differences between launch sites, winches, and gliders, each wing and site must have established guidelines and safety procedures in place.
IAW CAPR 70-1 paragraph 4.4.6. "A CAP member must be trained in accordance with the syllabus contained in CAPS 71-2 Aircrew Training, Glider in order to become a glider winch operator."
Click here to review the CAPS 71-2 Aircrew Training, Glider.
Each wing/site should have their own glider winch training program following the above criteria, and this should be documented. Upon successful completion of a glider winch training program and becoming a “Winch Operator” in Ops Quals, the operator may be given CAP driver permission under SPV for glider winches. All other driving requirements still need to be met, in accordance with CAPR 132-1.
Along with operator training/qualifications, glider winches are vehicles and need routine maintenance and service.
Click here for the CAP Glider Winch Maintenance Booklet. Use this if your glider winch does not have a manufacture’s maintenance schedule.
Golf Cart and Utility Type Vehicle (UTV)
Golf carts and UTVs may seem safer than regular vehicles but there are over 1,000 reported golf cart and UTV related accidents a month in the US. CAP vehicle operators seeking SPV driving permission for golf carts and UTVs must complete appropriate training. Upon successful completion of CAP Small Vehicle Training, the operator may be given CAP driver permission under SPV for golf cart and UTV. All other driving requirements still need to be met, in accordance with CAPR 132-1.
CAP training for golf carts and UTVs can be found in Absorb under Small Vehicle Training - DCE. This training has the DCE designator as it is counted as part of CAP's drivers continuing education.
Golf cart and UTV maintenance are important for their safety. If you do not have a manufacture’s maintenance schedule for your golf cart or UTV, use the below for monthly checks and see a certified golf cart or UTV maintenance facility annually.
Click here for the Golf Cart/Utility Type Vehicle Maintenance sheet.
Forklift
Operators of forklifts will undergo and meet all requirements set forth by CAP and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). For forklift training and certification, please contact CAP/LGT. The forklift’s manufacture’s maintenance schedule will be followed for routine inspections and maintenance.
