I remember preparing for a RAS evolution from "Lusty" to some support vessels many years ago when I was the deck Supervisor for a MK6 sqdn. I duly briefed the lads on their duties and we got started. It was only when the lad was about to hook the sacru hook with his earthing pole that I noticed he had the earthing plate in his jacket pocket! Luckily I got to him before the helicopter.
Not strictly on topic but another incident back at Culdrose many years ago consisted of spotting an earthing cable from a static fuel dispenser on 706 sqdn line (being used) knotted together. The lad fuelling the aircraft said the tractor had driven over it and had snapped it so he "fixed" it to complete the refuel!!
Jack, you gotta love him.
Cheers