Two Training Companies Invest in OW Facilities

Two of East Yorkshire’s offshore energy training providers are working in partnership to deliver the basic requirements for those wishing to work in the renewables industry. This training includes working at heights, marine safety, first aid, fire safety and manual handling.

Humberside Offshore Training Association (HOTA) along with HFR Solutions have both invested in their facilities. HOTA has installed a transition piece within their environmental pool, to simulate the transfer of personnel to and from water, and HFR Solutions have created a training tower to assist with the RenewableUK (RUK)/Global Wind Organisation (GWO) qualification.

At 15 metres, this is the highest training tower in the UK and is based at Humberside Fire and Rescue’s headquarters in Hessle.

HFR Solutions Managing Director, Nick Granger, explains: “The tower has been up and running for about a month now and we are already delivering a high standard of training to some of the industry’s leading energy companies, such as Centrica.

“Along with HOTA, we are the first providers in the region who can deliver all five facets of the RUK/GWO. With the Siemens development at Alexandra Dock and the Humber being the UK’s energy estuary we will see lots of inward investment in this area and training will be needed. HOTA and HFR Solutions have the same values and standards and we are both striving to keep as much renewables training provision in the Humber region as possible.”

HOTA General Manager Karen Shepherd commented: “With over 25 years’ experience in training for the oil and gas and maritime sectors it is a natural progression for HOTA to enter into the renewables industry. We have worked with the fire service for many years and we are both well-established organisations so we are delighted to be able to collaborate on the renewable training.

“HOTA wants to work with local training providers to make high standards of offshore training available locally. This is why we have recently expanded our facilities at both our Malmo Road and Albert Dock sites to offer the RUK/GWO training courses.”

HFR Solutions and HOTA have utilised various support, advice and funding through the Green Port Growth Programme by attending workshops, accessing sector information and receiving financial assistance for support with apprentices, gaining company accreditations and attending renewable exhibitions.

Supported by the Regional Growth Fund, the Green Port Growth Programme is designed to capitalise on renewable opportunities and to develop indigenous business growth within the renewable sector, securing long-term economic growth for the region.

Image: Dong Energy/Illustration