The deadline is looming for the wind industry’s new technical standard.
AIS Training’s lead wind energy instructor Fergus takes you through all you need to know:
From 31st March 2018 anyone working in the global wind industry, or wanting to work in the sector, will need to have a valid Global Wind Organisation (GWO) Basic Technical Training certificate (BTT) to work on a wind turbine.
The new standard was introduced by GWO last year to boost safety and ensure everyone stepping foot onto a wind turbine has a basic level of technical competency. This standard becomes mandatory in March.
BTT covers training in mechanical, hydraulics and electrical systems with the level pitched at people with no previous experience of these systems. All three BTT modules can be completed together over five days or can be done separately to fit in with other commitments.
Why are things changing?
The global wind industry is still a relatively new kid on the block compared with older, more established industries like oil and gas. Consequently, many of the working practises and standards in the industry are evolving as experience deepens.
The reasons behind the move are two-fold;
GWO – the wind industry’s membership body – drives safety and quality across the sector and is looking to improve the base level of technical competency of wind workers in order to reduce potential safety incidents involving incorrect use of tools and equipment.
Wind Sector companies each had their own training. This meant contractors moving between companies had to take multiple courses every time they changed contracts. This move will create common standards that the industry follows.
Do I need the certificate?
Yes! If you’re planning to work in the wind industry, from the end of March 2018 you will need to have a BTT certificate.
For those already qualified or able to demonstrate similar experience to the mechanical, hydraulics and electrical modules covered on the BTT, you can have your existing qualifications transferred to a training record in WINDA – the wind industry database of qualifications for wind workers.
To demonstrate you meet the required standard, you’ll need an assessment by a licenced merit assessor. AIS Training can do this for you, simply talk to our bookings team to find out more on 0844 800 1810 (Option 1)
What about Siemens, Orstead and Vestas qualifications?
BTT will replace some operator specific training to standardise training across the industry. Here’s what some of the big players said in a GWO press announcement:
John Barrie, Head of the GWO Training Committee and Senior Director, Technical & Safety Training at Vestas Wind Systems says: “At Vestas, we anticipate that the standard will replace 50% of our current Basic Service Training and around 30% of our Basic Installation Training.”
Ann Duedahl, Head of Global Training Excellence at Siemens Wind Power, agrees: “the implementation of the BTT in Siemens Gamesa will help standardize and localize the delivery of our training portfolio, while ensuring uniformity and quality across regions. Siemens expects the standard training to provide 50% of the basic technical training in the future”.
Bente Boa, Senior Learning & Development Specialist, at Orstead (formerly Dong Energy), stresses that “The flexibility [of the modular approach] help reduce the time from recruitment to the point where a technician is “fit for purpose”.
What will I learn on the course?
After the training you’ll be able to perform basic tasks under the supervision of an experienced technician.
In the electrical module you’ll learn about the basics of electricity, its associated risks and hazards, as well as understanding the functions and symbols of electrical components and sensors and how to assemble a simple electrical circuit.
The mechanical module covers the main components and mechanical systems on wind turbines and explains the risks and hazards associated with mechanics. You’ll learn practical skills such as the correct use of manual tightening and measuring tools, hydraulic torque and tensioning tools and how to inspect brake, yaw, cooling and lubrication systems.
For hydraulics you’ll find out about the basics and the risks and hazards associated with hydraulic work. By the end of the course you’ll understand the function of pumps, actuators, valves, sensors and how to check them.
How much will it cost?
At AIS Training we offer significant discounts if all three modules are taken together. The current discounted cost is £1,980 exc. VAT.
How to book your course:
ONLINE
Book online today by clicking HERE
SPEAK TO OUR TEAM
You can call us on 0844 800 1810 selecting Option 1 when prompted. We are open 8am-6pm Mon-Thurs, 8am-4pm on Friday’s and 8am-Midday on Saturday and Sunday.
EMAIL A REQUEST
There is always the option to email us for available dates, particularly helpful if you’re offshore. Send your email to training@aisgroup.co.uk and one of the team aim to respond to all queries within 24 hours, however over weekends and extremely busy periods this may take a little bit longer.
