None of Austria's EC135 operators involved in HEMS & Mountain Rescue operations (ÖAMTC, Schiders, Heli-Austria and Wucher) are using hoists on their EC135. Instead, all prefer to use the Human External Cargo (HEC) method regulated under the HESLO rules (Helicopter External Sling Load Operation). This not only saves high expenses in hoist overhauls, it also omits the need to carry a hoist operator. However, to counter the risk of a hook failure, HEC operations require two hooks installed under the airframe. The long "bar" mounted to OE-XAH's center belly is that "two hook" device/system.