The Global Wind Organization, or GWO, is a non-profit organization that was founded by the world’s leading wind turbine owners and manufacturers. Its goal is to set industry standards which ensure a safer industry and minimize injuries in the work environment. The first version of safety standards was released in 2012 as the GWO Basic Safety Training (BST) Standard. This was followed in 2017 by the GWO Basic Technical Training (BTT) Standard. Soon after came the GWO Enhanced First Aid (EFA) and GWO Advanced Rescue Training (ART) Standards.
This guide will explore the most common questions about the GWO. Find out how GWO training works and how to acquire GWO certification.
What Is GWO Training?
GWO training is a valuable asset to professionals already in or looking to enter wind or maritime industries. The GWO BST course is mandatory for anyone who wants to work in the wind turbine industry. The training includes various modules that teach professionals how to work safely in the wind industry and respond to hazards. Topics cover numerous best practices, such as equipment handling and emergency procedures, as well as national and international regulations.
A GWO training provider will typically offer basic training in an approved facility with protective gear, personal flotation devices (PFD), training tools, and simulators. Training participants will receive GWO certification on assessment of required knowledge and competencies.
Who Needs GWO Basic Safety Training?
GWO BST is necessary for wind technicians and other renewable energy technicians. Training is also required for maritime industry professionals who interact with offshore wind turbines. BST will build on existing skills, contribute to increased safety in work environments, and may lead to career advancement.
Selecting a GWO Training Provider
Attaining GWO certification includes the selection of a GWO-approved training provider and the completion of GWO-approved BST courses relevant to job requirements.
Find a list of GWO-approved providers here.
Choosing the Relevant GWO Training Courses
The GWO Basic Safety Training course is divided into five modules. Professionals working inland may only need to complete four modules. Only wind technicians or maritime professionals who work offshore are required to complete the Sea Survival training course.
First Aid
This module aims to prepare participants for incidents in the work environment and equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively give first aid treatment until a certified medical professional arrives. Exercises involve treatment of injuries such as burns, cuts, and fractures. Participants will also practice the correct way to use defibrillators, perform CPR, contact emergency services, accurately fill in an airway, and complete a breathing and circulation (ABC) survey on patients.
Fire Awareness
The fire awareness training course allows participants to gain the skills and knowledge necessary for responding to, and, more importantly, preventing fires in the wind turbine tower and nacelle. Participants learn to recognize and react to the different types of fires that may occur, as well as how to safely evacuate the tower during emergencies. Topics include the correct operations and procedures to follow when handling fire extinguishers.
During practical training, participants wear protective clothing in a fire or smoke environment while they conduct a search and rescue of simulated victims. Portable extinguishers are used to extinguish actual fires.
Manual Handling
Training incorporates safe lifting and maneuvering techniques for workers in unique and challenging environments. Instruction includes the safe use of cranes and hoists with correct ergonomic procedures to prevent injuries related to lifting moving parts and equipment.
Working at Heights
This training course encourages and demonstrates the best practices for working at elevations and safely climbing turbine towers. Participants learn how to rescue, perform risk assessments, use correct safety equipment, and gain knowledge on essential fall protection equipment.
Sea Survival
If employees work on or around offshore wind platforms, this training will introduce the skills necessary to survive at sea in the event a vessel or wind turbine must be abandoned in an emergency. It also teaches participants how to safely embark and disembark offshore wind turbine platforms. Students practice rescue procedures with inflatable rafts and life jackets. This may involve practical training like jumping into a pool from a one-meter height, swimming distances of 20 feet and staying afloat without the use of safety equipment.
How Long Does it Take to Complete a GWO Basic Safety Training Course?
At the Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies (MITAGS), the GWO Basic Safety Training may be completed in five days.
For How Long Is a GWO Certificate Valid?
The GWO BST certificate is valid for 24 months. To remain certified, it is necessary to complete a refresher course to renew the certification before the expiration date.
Get GWO Basic Safety Training With MITAGS
MITAGS GWO Five-Day BST affords maritime professionals the skills needed to evaluate and maintain the safety of coworkers and work environments. If you are looking for a way to increase your skills, knowledge, and confidence in response to emergency situations, MITAGS offers approved GWO Basic Safety Training with modules in fire awareness, sea survival, first aid, manual handling, and working at heights.
Contact a MITAGS Academic Advisor for information on this progressive training course with a leader in practical GWO training.