Month: February 2019

February wind energy news round up.

Looking back over the February wind energy news there’s been a lot going on in the sector. We summarise the main stories and put our spin on how the sector is shaping up in 2019.

So we’re at the end of the month already. Our February wind energy news round up includes the AWEA San Diego conference, a big push for offshore wind in California and former Iowa State Senator Jeff Danielson joins the AWEA.

AWEA San Diego Conference

First up in our February wind energy news round up we head to San Diego. You can read our full preview story here on the 27th and 28th February we will be exhibiting at the Wind Project O&M and Safety Conference. It’s a great opportunity for our industry to come together and discuss the challenges we face. Wind energy is one of the fastest growing sectors across the USA creating jobs in every state in which wind has a presence. But, with such fast growth comes numerous issues faced at every level. From our perspective it’s all about safety, with the great work being done by the GWO we know the industry is well regulated and long may this continue. If you are attending the conference head over to booth 4 and say hi, we’d love to talk you through our full range of GWO training courses.

Former Iowa State Senator Jeff Danielson joins the AWEA

Great news to see that former Iowa State Senator Jeff Danielson has joined the AWEA. His remit will to lead policy advocacy efforts across Midwestern and Plains states. As a former navy serviceman, firefighter and State Senator Jeff served his community with distinction and we can’t wait to see the results of his efforts for wind energy. Mr Danielson said “I’ll be working for a wonderful organization dedicated to growing a homegrown American energy source that strengthens the economy, improves the health of communities and makes us safer as a nation.” We have a special connection to Iowa as it’s home to one of our training facilities, administered by the Iowa Lakes Community College.

We think the AWEA does an amazing job advocating for the wind energy sector and this kind of high profile appointment shows what a serious player they are in one of the USA’s fastest growing sectors.

Offshore Wind is the Way Forward in California

A new report “The California Offshore Wind Project: A Vision for Industry Growth,” commissioned by the American Jobs Project in partnership with the Schatz Energy Research Center at Humboldt State University, Pacific Ocean Energy Trust, and BVG Associates. States that offshore wind could spur a new wave of innovation in the State. Given that California s home to some pretty big innovators it’s a bold claim but something that we whole heartedly welcome at STL USA. According to the report the potential of offshore wind would be enough to produce as much as 1,5 times the amount of electricity needed by the state. It’s also estimated the industry and supply chain could support as many as 17,500 jobs by 2045. One of the key aspects of wind energy is that it’s more cost effective to build turbines in the country they will be used in so the affects would be felt across the supply chain.

Stay tuned for our February newsletter and more insights from the world of wind energy.

GWO training basics, technical and safety.

The GWO training basics, basic safety and basic technical training are fundamental aspects of the GWO training standards. We look at each in depth.

We sometimes overlook the GWO training basics so this week we’re going, err, back to basics! We look at the two fundamental GWO standards and what you can expect if you join us on one of our courses. Each was introduced in response to demands for recognisable standards in the wind turbine industry.

GWO Basic Safety Training

The original GWO training standard and a stalwart of our GWO training course portfolio. The Basic Safety Training standard was introduced in 2012. Consisting of five modules:

First Aid
Manual Handling
Fire Awareness
Working at Heights
Sea Survival

the training standard is designed to equip the worker with a broad and sufficient safety knowledge base to operate safely when working with wind turbines and in the wind energy sector. We look at each module in detail below, highlighting what technicians can expect to demonstrate once they have received adequate training.

First Aid

Technicians will be able to demonstrate understanding of the importance of carrying out first aid in a safe manner in accordance with the legislative requirements of their geographic location and according to ERC and AHA guidelines.
Technicians will be able to identify and explain normal function, normal signs and symptoms of serious and minor injuries and illness related to the human body.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate understanding and correct order of management in an emergency in a WTG environment.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate correct use of lifesaving First Aid using the Primary Survey A–B–C
Technicians will be able to demonstrate correct use of an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED)
Technicians will be able to demonstrate correct use of Ordinary First Aid, the Secondary survey
Technicians will be able to demonstrate correct use of First Aid equipment in a First Aid scenario

Manual Handling

Technicians will be able to demonstrate understanding of the importance of carrying out work duties in a safe and sound manner in accordance with the legislative requirements of their geographic location.
Technicians will be able to identify aspects of their job tasks that could increase a worker’s risk of developing muscular/skeletal injuries.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate understanding of safe practices of Manual Handling, including the correct handling of equipment.
Technicians will be able to identify signs and symptoms of injuries related to poor Manual Handling techniques and have knowledge of reporting methods.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate a problem solving approach to Manual Handling in a wind turbine environment.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate Manual Handling risk reduction techniques.

Fire Awareness

Technicians will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the development and spread of fire.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the causes of fires in wind turbines and the dangers related to this.
Technicians will be able to identify any sign of a fire in a wind turbine environment.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the contingency plans in a wind turbine environment including smoke detection and emergency escape procedures.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate correct actions on discovering a fire including correct operation and fire extinguishing by means of the firefighting equipment in a WTG.

Working at Heights

Technicians will be able to demonstrate knowledge of hazards and risks associated with working at heights, specific to a WTG
Technicians will be able to demonstrate understanding of current national legislation regarding working at heights.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate correct identification of PPE, including identification of European/Global standard markings e.g. harness, hard hat, lanyards, etc.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills to correctly inspect, service, store and don the relevant PPE, e.g. harness, lanyards, fall arresters and work positioning equipment.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate correct use of the relevant PPE, e.g. harnesses lanyards, fall arresters and work positioning equipment. This includes correct identification of anchor points and correct ladder conduct.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate correct use of evacuation devices.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate how to approach rescue situations in WTGs and use rescue equipment efficiently.

Sea Survival

Technicians will be able to demonstrate knowledge of dangers and symptoms related to hypothermia and drowning.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate understanding of the advantages and limitations of the different LSA, PPE and PFPE commonly used offshore in the wind energy industry and are able to don and use them accordingly.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate safe transfer from vessel to dock, vessel to foundation and vessel to vessel.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the emergency and safety procedures on installations, vessels and WTG.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate knowledge of SAR and GMDSS.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate recovery and First Aid treatment of a “man over board”.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate evacuation from “WTG” to water by means of “Constant Rate Descender”
Technicians will be able to demonstrate individual and collective survival techniques at sea

GWO Basic Technical Training

The GWO training basics the Basic Technical Training standard was introduced in 2017. The Basic Technical Training Standard consists of three modules and an additional installation module which can be taken after certification in the mechanical module. From 31st March 2018 all new technicians working for GWO member companies and their suppliers are expected to complete Basic Technical Training. Modules include:

Mechanical
Electrical
Hydraulic
Installation

The Basic Technical Training standard is designed to equip technicians with a strong practical knowledge of the key technical aspects of wind turbines. We cover each module in detail below.

Mechanical

Technicians will be able to explain the main components, mechanical systems and the basic operation of wind turbines.
Technicians will be able to explain risks and hazards associated with mechanics.
Technicians will be able to understand the principles of bolted and welded connections and their inspection.
Technicians will be able to explain demonstrate practical skills to use manual tightening and measuring tools.
Technicians will be able to explain demonstrate the correct use of hydraulic torque and tensioning tools.
Technicians will be able to explain the principles of a gearbox.
Technicians will be able to explain the function of the brake systems and demonstrate how to inspect them.
Technicians will be able to explain the function of the yaw system and explain how to inspect it.
Technicians will be able to explain the function of the cooling system and demonstrate how to inspect it.
Technicians will be able to explain the function of the lubrication system and demonstrate how to inspect it.

Electrical

Technicians will be able to explain the basics of electricity.
Technicians will be able to explain risks and hazards associated with electrical work.
Technicians will be able to explain the function and symbol of electrical components.
Technicians will be able to explain the function of different types of sensors.
Technicians will be able to explain and interpret a simple electrical diagram and demonstrate how to assembly it on a circuit.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate how to make correct and safe measurements.

Hydraulic

Technicians will be able to explain the basics of hydraulics
Technicians will be able to explain risks and hazards associated with hydraulic work
Technicians will be able to explain the function of different types of pumps and demonstrate how to check start/stop pressure of a pump
Technicians will be able to explain the function of different types of actuators.
Technicians will be able to explain the function of different types of valves.
Technicians will be able to explain the function of accumulators and demonstrate how to check and pre-charge them.
Technicians will be able to explain the function of different types of sensors.
Technicians will be able to identify the components which transfer the oil.
Technicians will be able to describe the handling of oil procedures.
Technicians will be able to identify and find different components on a hydraulic diagram.
Technicians will be able to demonstrate how to measure the hydraulic pressure accurately.

Installation

Technicians will be able to identify the main installation activities and explain the overallrisks and hazards associated with the installation environment
Technicians will be able to explain the checklist systemthroughout the complete installation process
Technicians will be able to explain the characteristics of the installation environment
Technicians will be able to explain the principles and standards for handling and storing goods and components onsite or within a storage area before and after installation
Technicians will be able to explain the basic principles of the lifting equipment
Technicians will be able to explain the basic preparation of main components before installation
Technicians will be able to explain the basic mechanical completion
Technicians will be able to demonstrate how to perform the basic electrical completion including the principles and standards for handling and installing cables
Technicians will be able to explain the basic hydraulic completion
Technicians will be able to explain the principles of operating external generators during installation
Technicians will be able to explain the basis of how to do a handover to commissioning

We hope this gives you a detailed overview of GWO training basics with all the courseinformation of what you will be expected to know and do once you have completed each of the major training standards. For more information and to book a course click the button below:

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Under the hood of GWO safety training. All your questions answered.

We get asked a ton of questions about GWO safety training so we thought we’d pull them all together into this handy Q&A.

We regularly get asked about GWO safety training, why you need it and what are the benefits so here’s the lowdown.

GWO training has been around since 2012 when it first published it’s Basic Safety Training Standard (BST) in response to demand for a recognisable standard in the wind turbine industry. This was follow up with the Basic Training Technical Standard in 2017. GWO members, which includes anyone who’s anyone in the industry, accept a BST certificate as confirmation a technician or other wind turbine professional possesses the required knowledge to stop an unsafe work situation. In plain english it means that you need the certificates if you want to work on a GWO members turbines.

What is GWO?

GWO stands for Global Wind Organisation. A non-profit body GWO was founded by wind turbine manufacturers and owners.

Why does GWO exist?

GWO was created by it’s members to strive for an injury free work environment in the wind turbine industry, setting common international standards for safety training and emergency procedures.

What are GWO training standards?

GWO training standards describe the requirements for training courses that are recommended by members of GWO. By complying with GWO standards and criteria, certified training providers are considered competent and proficient.

How do they work?

GWO members create training standards reflecting the risks their technicians face at work
Training providers, certified according to GWO criteria, deliver the training
Employers accept the training of GWO-certified technicians, wherever they were trained
Employers avoid duplicating training and technicians are available for more productive workdays on site

How do I know a training provider is certified?

We’ve added the logo to the image at the top of this blog. Here it is again

Only certified training establishments can display this logo. You can also ask to see a certificate issued directly by the GWO.

What are the individual GWO safety training standards?

As the industry has grown and evolved the standards have adapted to reflect the safety hazards, they currently include:

Basic Safety Training Standard
Basic Safety Training Refresher Standard
Basic Training Technical Standard
Advanced Rescue Training Standard
Advanced Rescue Training Refresher Standard
Enhanced First Aid Standard
Enhanced First Aid Refresher Standard

Do they make the work environment safer?

Absolutely. A survey of members shows 62% strongly agree that GWO standards have improved alignment and quality of basic safety standards across the industry.

I have training how does this measure up?

GWO provide a merit system for organisations with training systems in place. This assesses the training you have, identifying any gaps and subject to receiving training on those gaps you or and your employees can become accredited.

How long do the courses take?

Most courses are run over one or two days with practical training and assessment. Refreshers usual take a day and should be taken annually.

Where can I study?

STL operate GWO safety training courses at state of the art facilities in Huntstville, Texas and Estherville, Iowa.

How can I book a course?

That’s the easy bit. Fill in our form a tell us what you need, don’t worry if you’re not 100% sure one of our team will be able to advise you on the most suitable course for your situation.

January wind energy news round up

We like to keep our finger on the pulse of the wind energy sector so here’s our wind energy news round up with all the top stories from January.

The start of the year has been predictably busy so save some time and read through our wind energy news round up of all the top stories.

AWEA San Diego coming up.

We can’t wait for the AWEA Wind Project O&M and Safety conference at the end of September in San Diego. We’v got a detailed preview in our blog, here. STL will be exhibting, come and see us to talk all thing GWO training.

Budweiser embraces wind energy.

This Bud’s For a Better Tomorrow. (PRNewsfoto/Budweiser)

In Budweiser’s latest Super Bowl ad the brewer highlights its long term commitment to renewable energy. This kind of coverage is amazing for wind energy beaming directly into the homes of millions of consumers and leading the way in responsible energy sourcing.

In 2018 Budweiser announced its commitment to be brewed with 100% renewable electricity from wind power. To celebrate this they are showcasing the commitment on the biggest stage of all. Once again corporate America leads the way in committing to renewables.

Tufts launches M.S in offshore wind engineering.

The first of it’s kind in the USA the masters degrees is testament to the growth in the wind energy sector.

“If wind power is to continue its growth as an energy source, we need not only research and development, but also programs that educate a generation of engineers who are devoted to sustainable development and energy independence,”

comments Laurie Baise, professor and chair of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, via TuftsNow.

“This is a first step toward making climate and energy sustainability a priority.”

Interested in the course? Find out more here.

Canada joins international renewable energy agency.

Canada has officially become a member of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). Joining 159 other countries countries in an organisation devoted to providing clean, sustainable energy for the world’s growing population. The announcement was made earlier this month by Amarjeet Sohi, Canada’s minister of natural resources.

IRENA helps countries to transition to renewable energy, providing a platform for international cooperation and learning on all things renewable energy.

Washington D.C mayor commits to 100% renewable by 2032.

With the mayor’s signing of the Clean Energy D.C. Omnibus Act of 2018, Washington, D.C., has officially committed to transition to 100% renewable electricity by 2032. Joining states such as California and Hawaii as well as 100+ municipalities Washington D.C is the latest to formally commit to a 100% renewable energy goal. This is great news and shows how committed the US is to a sustainable energy future.

That’s it for our news round up we hope you’ve enjoyed the stories. All that’s left to say is see you in San Diego for the AWEA conference!