DNV GL Sets Up ‘Walk to Work’ JIP

DNV GL is initiating a Joint Industry Project (JIP) to provide guidance on an alternative means of personnel transfer onto offshore installations.

The “Walk to Work” (W2W) approach, where offshore installations are manned from a ship via gangway is being increasingly considered and used in the North Sea and other oil and gas regions to replace or supplement traditional manning methods such as helicopter, flotel or barge.

W2W manning can offer many significant benefits including: cost reduction; increased productivity; greater and more flexible man-hour delivery; additional bed space; resource sharing; and, reduced worker major accident risk.

The ability to use W2W also provides an alternative to helicopters should, for example, there are exceptional circumstances that impacts helicopter availability.

W2W can take many forms ranging from a simple crew ferry between land and an offshore facility, to an integrated large multi-role vessel with helideck, hotel, rescue and recovery, diving, ROV and crane facilities, servicing and providing a number of offshore facilities whilst simultaneously performing other field activities.

The goal of the JIP is to develop and release W2W industry guidance within six months of the project beginning.

DNV GL has been involved in W2W projects as a ship classification society, marine consultant, safety and regulatory compliance advisor, and in a wider risk management role.

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Press Release, November 28, 2013