The importance of GWO training in the wind industry
The first step to any career in the wind industry is ensuring that you have the required qualifications that all employers look for. One necessary qualification to enter the industry is a GWO training certificate.
In this blog post, we will explore GWO training programmes in greater detail and explain the benefits of having this qualification.
What is GWO training?
GWO Basic Safety Training (BST) is a programme developed by The Global Wind Organisation (GWO), a non-profit organisation founded by wind turbine manufacturers and owners that establishes international standards for safety training in the global wind industry.
These standards are set to promote an injury-free work environment and to enable participants to support and care for themselves and others working in the industry by having the knowledge and skills to act in the event of an emergency.
As part of the GWO BST, delegates will complete five mandatory training courses necessary for working onshore and offshore in the wind turbine industry.
All five courses are combined into a single 5-day package course, which includes both theory and supervised practical sessions.
These courses are detailed further below.
- GWO Fire Awareness
The GWO Fire Awareness course ensures that delegates are aware of the hazards that may arise in the wind industry, as well as the skills required to control and mitigate these hazards. The course equips learners with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to respond appropriately in the event of a fire on a turbine installation.
Delegates will learn how to identify fire signs, follow proper emergency escape procedures, recall wind turbine contingency plans, and operate firefighting equipment.
- GWO First Aid
The GWO First Aid course teaches delegates how to provide safe and effective first aid, including performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and using an automated external defibrillator (AED).
Delegates will learn the importance of carrying out first aid effectively and securely, as well as how to manage an emergency situation and how to use first aid equipment correctly in a wind turbine generator (WTG) environment.
- GWO Manual Handling
The GWO Manual Handling course teaches delegates how to effectively carry out manual handling tasks in a wind turbine environment. It will teach learners about positive manual handling behaviour and how to follow proper procedures to ensure the safety of themselves and those around them.
Delegates will learn how to demonstrate proper manual handling techniques as well as understand the risks associated with not following the correct procedures.
- GWO Working at Height
The GWO Working at Height course will teach learners how to use basic PPE equipment, perform safe and comprehensive basic rescue from height in a remote turbine environment, and meet emergency response requirements.
Delegates will also gain knowledge on the risks associated with working at heights in a WTG, how to identify and use relevant PPE and evacuation devices, and how to use rescue equipment effectively.
- GWO Sea Survival
The GWO Sea Survival course teaches learners about sea survival and evacuation techniques, how to use life-saving equipment, and how to safely transfer between WTGs and vessels.
Delegates are taught how to take the necessary precautions to reduce the likelihood of an accident and improve their chances of survival in an emergency at sea.
Once all five courses are completed, everyone who meets the course’s learning objectives will receive a GWO qualification and will be qualified to work in the wind industry.
Those who work in the wind industry are required to complete a GWO Basic Safety Training Refresher (BSTR) course once every two years.
What are the benefits of a GWO qualification?
As mentioned previously, GWO qualifications are required to enter the wind industry. Although it is necessary because it demonstrates knowledge and emergency procedures to employers, it also provides a number of benefits to those seeking employment in the wind industry.
Prepares you for work in the wind industry
GWO training helps people develop the skills and knowledge required to work in the wind industry.
The programme allows people to learn from experienced instructors who are passionate about their work and have encountered some of the most dangerous situations firsthand.
With this experience, instructors can provide industry insight and training, allowing them to avoid dangerous scenarios and be prepared for them should they arise.
Creates a safe environment to work in
The training course is intended to provide candidates with the necessary skills for working safely in the wind turbine industry. It covers a wide range of topics and teaches delegates effective techniques for accident prevention and emergency response.
Because the course is mandatory, everyone working in the industry will be fully aware of safety procedures and how to protect themselves and others in the event of an emergency, resulting in a more secure working environment.
Network with other professionals in the industry
It enables learners to network with other professionals and individuals interested in entering the wind industry. Networking with these people provides a valuable opportunity for learners to exchange ideas, share experiences, and learn from others with first-hand industry knowledge.
How Scott’s Access Services can help
We are a GWO training provider and can provide you with the qualifications you need to kick-start your career in the wind industry.
Our GWO Basic Safety Training course covers all aspects of safety training within the industry, including fire awareness, first aid, manual handling, working at height and sea survival.
Contact us today for more information on our courses, or alternatively, you can book a spot here.
You must be physically fit and capable of completing all aspects of the training to take these courses.
