What certificates are needed for offshore wind jobs?

As the offshore wind industry expands, job seekers are eyeing opportunities in this growing sector. Gaining the right certifications is crucial for securing positions in offshore wind farms.

These qualifications ensure workers have the necessary skills and safety knowledge to operate in challenging marine environments.

Global Wind Organisation (GWO) certificates

Global Wind Organisation certificates are crucial for offshore wind careers. They cover key areas such as first aid, manual handling, fire awareness, working at heights, and sea survival. Most employers demand these certificates as a minimum requirement.

The Basic Safety Training (BST) package is particularly important. It includes modules on:

• First aid
• Manual handling
• Fire awareness
• Working at heights
• Sea survival

These certificates typically need renewal every two years. Many training providers offer GWO courses, both in-person and through blended learning approaches.

Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET)

The OPITO-approved Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) is widely recognised. It includes practical exercises in simulated offshore conditions. The training covers:

• Helicopter underwater escape techniques
• Life raft deployment and boarding
• Use of emergency breathing systems
• Cold water survival skills

Refresher courses, known as FOET (Further Offshore Emergency Training), are required every four years. These courses ensure workers maintain up-to-date survival skills throughout their offshore careers.

Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) protocol training courses

Offshore wind jobs require strict adherence to HSE protocols. Workers must complete specific training and obtain certifications to ensure safe operations in challenging maritime environments.

First aid and medical fitness

First aid certification is essential for offshore wind personnel. Workers must complete a course that covers basic life support, wound management, and emergency response procedures. The certification typically needs renewal every three years.

Medical fitness certificates are also mandatory. These involve comprehensive health assessments to ensure workers can perform their duties safely in remote locations. Examinations include cardiovascular tests, vision and hearing checks, and drug screenings.

Offshore medic certifications are necessary for designated staff members. These individuals receive advanced training in emergency medical care and can provide critical support until professional help arrives.

Fire awareness and safety

Fire safety training is crucial for offshore wind workers. Employees must obtain certificates in fire prevention, detection, and suppression techniques specific to maritime environments.

Courses cover the use of various firefighting equipment, including extinguishers, hoses, and foam systems. Practical exercises simulate real-world scenarios, preparing workers for potential emergencies.

Advanced certifications are required for fire team leaders and emergency response coordinators. These roles demand in-depth knowledge of fire behaviour, evacuation procedures, and incident command systems.

Manual handling and ergonomics

Proper manual handling techniques are vital to prevent injuries in offshore wind operations. Workers must complete certified training programmes that teach safe lifting, carrying, and positioning methods.

Ergonomics certifications focus on optimising workstations and equipment to reduce strain and improve efficiency. This training helps workers identify and mitigate risks associated with repetitive tasks and awkward postures.

OSHA certifications

OSHA certifications play a crucial role in offshore wind jobs. These certifications ensure workers are properly trained in safety protocols and hazard recognition specific to the offshore environment.

• OSHA 10-hour construction industry outreach training programme: fundamental requirement for many offshore wind positions. It covers basic safety and health hazards in construction, including fall protection and electrical safety.
• OSHA 30-hour: for supervisory roles, the OSHA 30-Hour construction industry outreach training programme is often necessary. This more comprehensive course delves deeper into safety regulations and management responsibilities.
• OSHA maritime training: specific to offshore work, the OSHA maritime industry outreach training programme is highly relevant. It addresses unique hazards associated with working on or near water.

Some key OSHA certifications for offshore wind jobs include:

• Fall protection
• Confined space entry
• Hazardous materials handling
• Electrical safety

Workers may also need to obtain the OSHA offshore wind energy certificate. This specialised certification covers wind turbine safety, marine transfer operations, and emergency response procedures.

It's important to note that OSHA certifications often need to be renewed periodically. Employers typically require workers to maintain up-to-date certifications throughout their employment in offshore wind roles.

Have the certificates?

If you already have, or are working towards these qualifications, Airswift can connect you with global offshore wind jobs. Register for our candidate portal to see current vacancies and sign up for job alerts.