When you are using the container to return parachutes to supply or to transfer the assembly to another activity, ensure that th eold tags and labels on the container are removed or marked out. Ensure that the proper tags and labels are attached and properly filled out on the trans- ferring container. Tags and labels are shown in figure 1-12. STORING To place a parachute assembly into temporary storage, proceed as follows: NOTE: This procedure is for parachute assemblies that are in a ready-for-issue (RFI) status only. 1. Inspect the parachute assembly, ensuring that it is in an RFI status. Check the nameplate information with the recorded information on the parachute history card. Fill out an Aircraft Equipment Condition Tag, indicating the as- sembly name, serial number, and part number. 2. Remove and disarm the automatic actuator. (This is an explosive device used to automatically pull the ripcord on certain parachutes.) 3. Remove cartridges from all other car- tridge-actuated devices (these are other explosive devices used to assist in opening certain types of parachute canopies). Store the cartridges from explosive devices in accordance with existing instructions. 4. Release all snap fasteners, open all slide fasteners, and remove one end of each of the parachute container spring opening bands. 5. Chain the parachute suspension lines. 6. Remove the manual ripcord cable as- sembly and place it in a small paper or plastic bag. 7. Examine the shipping container for con- dition. Remove or mark out all old tags or labels on the container. 8. Place the ripcord assembly in a side pocket of the parachute bag or at the bottom of the container. Spread one-eighth pound of naphthalene flakes on top of the parachute container. Insert the suspension lines loosely and fold in the canopy; then sprinkle one-fourth pound of naphthalene flakes into the canopy fold. Lay the pilot parachute into the shipping container uncompressed. 9. Close the shipping container; if a card- board box is used, tape the flaps closed. 10. Place the parachute into storage according to local requirements. PERSONNEL PARACHUTE INSPECTIONS As a PR you have one of the most important jobs in naval aviation. The type of equipment you will be working with is lifesaving equipment. Unlike the other components that make up the naval aircraft, the parachute has no backup system. If all other parts fail, the parachute must function to prevent serious injury or death to the aircrewman. Parachutes are primarily designed to allow pilots and aircrewmen to escape from disabled aircraft. The nature of this lifesaving system leaves no margin for error in the work of the PR. Parachute inspections must be carefully conducted, ensuring security, rapid positive functioning, airworthiness, and comfort of the entire assembly. Procedures for working with parachutes are different from other types of work because whenever a critical operation is performed, the rigger’s work must be inspected and his per- formance verified and recorded by a designated inspector before work continues. Continuing with a procedure without obtaining the required inspection is prohibited. Although this constant interruption of work may seem inefficient, you must appreciate how important it is to the parachute user that every step is done exactly right. REASONS FOR INSPECTING PARACHUTES Depending on its use, a parachute is exposed to a large number of potentially destructive forces and agents. A parachute consists of many parts and is a complex and sometimes fragile assembly, so there are many chances for something to go wrong. Once a parachute has been inspected, repacked, and placed in service, it is moved around, sat on, leaned against, and in many ways subjected to forces that can cause chafe and wear. When installed in an aircraft or being worn, the parachute may be contaminated by a number of potentially harmful fluids such as perspiration, lubricants and hydraulic fluids, chemicals, and salt water. Dampness can also get into the components from humid conditions. Aside from inspecting for damage, new parachutes are inspected before being placed in service because it is possible for a mistake to be made when many persons are involved in a manufacturing process. A parachute may also 1-14