As the world shifts towards renewable energy, offshore wind power is becoming increasingly popular. However, working in such an environment can be challenging and risky. Workers have to brave harsh weather conditions, extreme temperatures, and long hours.
In this article, we will delve into the dangers associated with working in offshore windfarms. Alternatively, download our whitepaper about wind parks, offshore incidents and safety.
Offshore Wind Industry Outlook
The offshore wind industry has seen impressive growth with Europe currently having over 47% of global installations followed by Asia with 44%, with China set to overtake Europe in the coming years. Technological advances have made offshore turbines more efficient and cost-effective, leading to further deployment, especially far off the coast as floating installations. More than 400 GW production capacity is estimated to be installed offshore by 2030.
Hazardous working environment
Offshore wind work presents hazards such as extreme weather, cramped spaces, and heavy equipment. Specialized protective gear is necessary to protect against these risks, as well as occupational health risks such as mental fatigue and working under intense pressure. Employers must implement safety protocols to ensure offshore wind remains an attractive career option.
Offshore wind parks pose various risks, including unpredictable sea states and risky lifting operations. Understanding these common threats is essential for safe and successful operations.
Long offshore shifts can lead to worker fatigue, decreasing productivity and safety measures. To combat this, wind park operators should consider rotating shifts, providing regular training, personal protective equipment, and ergonomic tools to reduce the likelihood of fatigue-induced incidents.
Inexperienced crew members in offshore wind parks may not understand potential dangers, safety protocols, or emergency procedures. This can pose a risk to the successful operation of the park, especially with the increasing complexity and lack of experienced crews in the labour market.
Emergency preparedness
It is essential to implement preventative measures to keep offshore incidents to a minimum. First, ensuring that all personnel are properly trained and aware of their roles and responsibilities is crucial. The equipment must be maintained and inspected regularly to ensure it functions properly. Finally, the design and operation of the offshore wind park must comply with local and international regulations to prevent mechanical incidents.
Offshore incidents can result from various factors, including equipment failure and human error. Safety measures such as emergency preparedness plans and regular drills are crucial to mitigate the risk.
Offshore incidents: Rescue techniques and procedures
Quick action and assessment is crucial in offshore rescue situations. Tools such as binoculars or cameras can aid in determining the extent of the problem before proceeding with the appropriate rescue technique.
Evacuation involves quickly removing people from the area via watercraft to ensure timely medical attention and reduce additional danger. Raising and lowering personnel using winches is another rescue technique used after an incident, for repairs, replacements or maintenance work.
Rescuers can use lifeboats or liferafts for open-water navigation and be prepared with communication devices such as radios for emergency situations.
PLBs are effective in tracking those in distress at sea and allow for easy communication for help with a simple push of a button.
Offshore Incident: Coast Guard and Onshore Emergency Management
During an offshore emergency, the Coast Guard and onshore emergency management personnel coordinate to ensure everyone’s safety by providing search and rescue personnel, equipment, and land-based interventions. The Coast Guard follows national regulations for operation, communication, and information command while onshore emergency management monitors the situation, communicates with the public, and ensures open communication channels.
The Coast Guard and onshore emergency management collaborate to provide real-time updates and coordinate resources, ensuring quick response during offshore emergencies. Accurate, real-time data, such as personnel-on-board lists, is crucial for successful operations, minimizing potential damage and loss of life. Seamless coordination between all parties is essential for swift action and effective rescue operations.
The offshore wind industry is a hazardous place. If you want to keep your people protected and safe, you have to be prepared. Identec Solutions works successfully for decades with offshore partners to help them to make their operations safer.
Do you want to know how to keep your POB list accurate and available at all times?
Learn more about Crew Companion!
