Oceans and seas, dynamic and unpredictable, are the foundation for global marine and offshore businesses. These industries, crucial for the economy, face numerous challenges, one of which is safely transferring workers between offshore platforms and ships. Walk-to-Work (W2W) gangways have emerged as essential innovations, blending advanced technology with stringent safety protocols to address this challenge in offshore HSE.
The main bridge is the primary component of the gangway, linking the vessel to the offshore structure. Constructed from high-strength materials like galvanized steel and aluminium, it ensures safe passage for personnel and equipment even in harsh sea conditions.
The pedestal base, which anchors the gangway to the vessel, features special rotating parts that adjust to the ship’s movements, maintaining a stable connection. Telescopic extensions allow the gangway to extend or retract as needed, bridging varying distances seamlessly. The grip system ensures a secure attachment to the offshore structure, preventing accidental disengagement and ensuring safe transfers.
Additionally, W2W-gangways are equipped with motion compensation systems that adjust to the vessel’s movements, ensuring a secure link. Active Motion Compensation uses sensors to detect and adjust to the ship’s movements in real-time, maintaining stability. Passive Motion Compensation relies on hydraulic or mechanical systems to absorb motion, providing additional stability.
An emergency release mechanism allows for swift detachment from the offshore structure in emergencies, ensuring safe boarding and deboarding. Redundant grip systems with dual-locking features prevent inadvertent releases, enhancing operational confidence. Holistic monitoring systems continuously assess environmental parameters and installation health, flagging emergent risks to safeguard personnel and structural integrity.
While W2W gangways are essential, alternative methods like helicopters and basket transfers are also used. Helicopters provide rapid crew transfers, especially in remote locations, though they are limited by weather conditions and higher costs. Basket transfers involve lifting personnel in a basket by a crane, offering quick transfers in varied sea conditions but exposing personnel to open sea risks and limiting capacity.
Each method has its pros and cons, and the choice depends on factors like distance, urgency, sea and weather conditions, and the number of personnel or equipment to be transferred. Ensuring safety and efficiency in offshore operations requires a careful evaluation of these factors.
Crew Monitoring
Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS) enhance safety by tracking staff movements through the W2W gangway, providing detailed oversight and promoting informed decision-making. The Sensor Integration system employs AI to analyze data from gyroscopes, accelerometers, and load cells, offering real-time monitoring of gangway conditions and preventing accidents through proactive measures.
Automated crew monitoring uses modern technology to track crew members, enhancing safety and efficiency. Real-time updates on crew whereabouts enable swift action during emergencies, while ongoing data collection helps identify trends and areas for improvement. An emergency alert system ensures prompt responses to anomalies or emergencies, significantly reducing response times and enhancing safety.
Offshore operations have evolved from traditional methods to tech-driven solutions, significantly improving safety and efficiency. While technology like walk-to-work gangways and crew monitoring plays a crucial role, the human element remains indispensable. Training, safety culture, and adherence to protocols are as important as technological tools.
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