Navigating the Depths: Health and Safety Training for Offshore Careers

Working offshore, particularly in roles that involve rope access and other specialised tasks, often requires comprehensive health and safety training to ensure the well-being of workers and the safe execution of tasks. In addition to industry-specific training, many offshore careers may require certifications from organisations like IRATA (Industrial Rope Access Trade Association) and GWO (Global Wind Organisation). Here’s an overview of the training you might need:

• IRATA Level 1, 2, or 3 Certification:?This certification is essential for those involved in rope access work. Level 1 is for entry-level workers, Level 2 for technicians, and Level 3 for supervisors.?
• GWO Training:The Global Wind Organisation provides standardised training for those working in the wind industry. The basic GWO courses include: GWO Basic Safety Training (BST):?This comprises modules on First Aid, Manual Handling, Fire Awareness, Working at Heights, and Sea Survival. GWO Advanced Rescue Training (ART):?Focuses on rescue techniques specific to the wind industry, including advanced rescue from height and confined spaces. GWO Enhanced First Aid (EFA):?Advanced first aid training tailored to the wind industry.?
• Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET):?This is often required for offshore workers and includes modules on sea survival, basic firefighting, and helicopter safety

• Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET):?This training focuses on safely escaping from a helicopter landing in the water
• Confined Space Entry Training:?Many offshore environments involve confined spaces. Training in safely entering, working, and exiting confined spaces is crucial.?
• Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Training:?Training in handling hazardous materials may be necessary depending on the specific tasks involved.?
• Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) Training:?General health and safety training is crucial for understanding workplace hazards and promoting a safe working environment.?
• Personal Fall Protective Equipment (PFPE) Training:?Understanding and proper usage of PPE specific to the offshore environment is essential.

• Risk Assessment and Management Training:?Given the unique challenges of offshore work, training in risk assessment and management is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring a safe working environment.

Always check with your employer or the relevant industry authority to ensure you have the most up-to-date information on the required training for your offshore role. Additionally, maintaining certification often requires periodic refresher courses, so staying current with training is essential for a successful offshore career.

At MCL Height Safety we provide a selection of the required courses including IRATA, GWO, Fixed Ladder, Confined Space and Personal Fall Protection Equipment inspection training at our facilities in East London, South London and Grimsby, Humberside. Get in touch to find out how we can assist you. Call 0208 5585688 or email [email protected]?our sister training company Lighthouse Safety can provide Occupational Health and Safety Training from the likes of NEBOSH and IOSH call 01634 260631 or email bookings@lighthousesafety for information on these courses.

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