G+ safety organisation unveils recommended practice for helicopter operations

As the number of offshore windfarms has grown, with an increasing number being built further offshore, helicopters have become integral for operational tasks such as site surveys, transferring personnel, and maintenance and inspection.

The G+ Good practice guidelines for safe helicopter operations in support of the global offshore wind industry and HeliOffshore’s Wind Farm Recommended Practice documents set a new benchmark for offshore wind aviation safety.

A result of two years of collaboration between representatives from helicopter operators, aircraft manufacturers, energy companies, wind turbine manufacturers and industry regulators, the recommended practice helps stakeholders integrate helicopter operations safely into offshore wind projects.

A HeliOffshore windfarm working group led by Siemens Gamesa identified and prioritised a list of critical topics to be addressed which were published in both documents, respectively.

G+ member companies also formed a working group to steer the development of these guidelines, providing oversight as well as contributing to the content.

G+ general manager Kate Harvey said, “The harmonisation and sharing of experience that these guidelines promote will lead to real health and safety benefits, as we all continue to work tirelessly to uphold our safety performance.

“Wind industry users of helicopter services cannot simply ‘contract out’ their overall responsibility for the safety of their employees and others who may be affected by their activities, so these are fundamental resources for the services they procure.

“As offshore wind capacity grows, our commitment to operations being carried out in a safe and efficient manner remains unwavering.”

HeliOffshore chief executive Tim Rolfe said, “We are delighted to have collaborated with G+ on the development and launch of these two essential recommended practices. It brings us one step closer to our goal of ensuring no lives are lost through offshore aviation, no matter where in the energy industry that service is provided.

“Regulators, operators and manufacturers across the world have collaborated on the documents, which support the safety leaders of tomorrow. We will now work with our members to implement these practices at an organisational level.

“As the energy sector evolves, we have a unique opportunity to apply the accumulated knowledge, skills and expertise of the last 50 years to new developments – particularly in renewables – in the decades ahead. While the risks and challenges may change, our vision remains the same – a safer frontline, for everyone, served by an open, responsive and aligned offshore aviation industry.”