IAVWOPSG-Memo/9

18/11/04

MEMORANDUM

Ref.:	AN 10/18.2
To:	Members, International Airways Volcano Watch Operations Group (IAVWOPSG)
From:	IAVWOPSG Secretary
Subject:	Follow-up of IAVWOPSG/1, Conclusion 1/7
Action:	a) review the draft VAAC back-up procedures; and

b) submit comments, at your earliest convenience, but not later than 17 December 2004.

Pursuant to Conclusion 1/7 of the IAVWOPSG/1 Meeting, attached are the draft VAAC back-up procedures developed by Nigel Gait (VAAC London), in coordination with Chris Strager (VAAC Anchorage) for inclusion in the Handbook on the International Airways Volcano Watch (IAVW) — Operational Procedures and Contact List (Doc 9766) for your comments and suggestions, at your earliest convenience, but not later than 17 December 2004.

I would like to point out that consideration was given as to whether to include procedures on VAACs backing up other VAACs. It was felt, however, that this would be difficult to administer, especially due to language differences, and should not be included.

Best regards,

(signed by)

R. Romero

Secretary, IAVWOPSG

Enclosure:
VAAC back-up procedures

ATTACHMENT

BACK-UP PROCEDURES FOR VOLCANIC ASH ADVISORY CENTRES

The following guidelines on back-up procedures should be followed by VAACs:

a)	a back-up site should be established;

b)	back-up sites should have the full capability of the primary site, i.e. the ability to monitor ash dispersal, run atmospheric dispersion models, produce and distribute the volcanic ash advisory;

c)	the back-up site should be chosen as to maximize efficiency, e.g. this will normally be at an alternative 24/7 production facility with pre-existing facilities for the VAAC capability;

d)	back-up sites should maintain up-to-date contact lists as per the VAAC;

e)	in the event of the back-up site becoming operational, volcanic ash advisories issued by the back-up VAAC will contain information giving the origin of the message; and

f)	the back-up arrangements should be tested at least annually.

Note.— Most of the VAACs already have a nominated back-up site. This back-up site may be in the same Contracting State or it may be another VAAC.

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