Month: September 2024

The rapid expansion of wind energy has made wind technicians indispensable to the operation, maintenance, and repair of wind turbines. With turbines reaching heights of up to 300 feet (90 meters) or more, these technicians work in a high-risk environment. Their safety is paramount, and this requires a combination of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and rescue equipment designed specifically for their unique challenges. In this article, we’ll explore the various types of PPE and rescue equipment used by wind technicians, the pros and cons of different device types, and why it is crucial for teams to have access to a variety of rescue solutions.

The Role of PPE in Wind Turbine Maintenance

PPE serves as the first line of defence for wind technicians against potential hazards such as falls, electrical shocks, and weather-related dangers. Wind turbines are often located in remote areas where weather conditions can change quickly, increasing the likelihood of dangerous situations. Proper PPE can significantly mitigate risks and prevent accidents.

Key Types of PPE for Wind Technicians

1. Fall Protection Systems

   • Harnesses: A full-body harness is a critical component of fall protection for wind technicians. Designed to distribute the force of a fall across the body, these harnesses are attached to an anchor point via a lanyard or self-retracting lifeline (SRL).
     • Pros: Durable, adjustable, and allows freedom of movement. They are designed to prevent serious injury in the event of a fall.
     • Cons: They can be uncomfortable when worn for extended periods, particularly if they are not properly fitted. Limited protection in case of secondary falls (e.g., from one platform to another).
   • Self-Retracting Lifelines (SRLs): SRLs automatically retract and lock in the event of a fall, reducing the distance a technician can drop.
     • Pros: Automatic locking and retraction offer rapid response in the event of a fall. Allows for greater mobility than traditional lanyards.
     • Cons: SRLs can be expensive, and maintenance is crucial to ensure they function correctly. Their weight can also be a drawback when climbing tall turbines.

2. Helmets with Chin Straps

   • Helmets designed for wind technicians are lightweight, often vented, and come with chin straps to prevent them from falling off during work.
     • Pros: Lightweight design reduces fatigue, and the chin strap ensures the helmet stays in place even during high-wind situations.
     • Cons: Helmets need to be replaced after impact, which can be costly. Additionally, they may become uncomfortable in hot conditions without proper ventilation.

3. Protective Eyewear

   • Wind technicians work in environments with flying debris, dust, and potential exposure to harmful UV rays. Protective eyewear ensures that their vision remains unimpaired.
     • Pros: Shields the eyes from UV radiation, wind, dust, and debris. Some are designed with anti-fog coatings for better visibility.
     • Cons: Fogging or dirt buildup can obstruct vision, leading to distractions. Cheap models may be uncomfortable or fail to provide adequate protection.

4. Gloves

   • Wind technicians rely on dexterity, so gloves must provide protection without sacrificing hand movement. Cut-resistant gloves with grip features are often preferred.
     • Pros: Provides protection from cuts, abrasions, and electrical hazards. Helps maintain grip in wet or greasy conditions.
     • Cons: Can reduce tactile sensitivity, making it difficult to handle small components. Poorly fitted gloves can cause hand fatigue.

5. Footwear

   • Wind technicians wear specialized boots with slip-resistant soles and puncture-resistant materials, ensuring stability on ladders and platforms.
     • Pros: Provides good traction and support. Steel toes or composite reinforcement protect against falling objects.
     • Cons: Heavier boots can cause fatigue, especially when climbing turbines. Insufficient insulation can lead to discomfort in cold conditions.

Rescue Equipment: A Necessity in Wind Turbine Operations

While PPE can prevent many accidents, there remains a risk of incidents where a fall or other emergency occurs. Rescue equipment is designed to ensure swift, safe recovery of technicians in such scenarios. Rescue plans are mandatory for any wind turbine site, and the right equipment can mean the difference between life and death.

Types of Rescue Equipment

1. Rescue Kits

   • Rescue kits typically contain ropes, pulleys, harnesses, and descent devices. They are designed to lower a technician to safety or bring them up from a hazardous location.
     • Pros: Comprehensive and ready for use in various situations. They can be customized based on the height of the turbine and the specific working conditions.
     • Cons: Heavier kits can be cumbersome to carry, and improper training can make using these systems dangerous. They require frequent inspections and maintenance.

2. Descent Devices

   • These devices enable a technician to safely descend from a height in case of emergency.
     • Pros: Provides a controlled descent in emergencies, reducing the risk of injury. Some models allow technicians to carry another person if necessary.
     • Cons: Not all descent devices are suitable for every turbine, as the height and space constraints may differ. Additionally, incorrect use can lead to uncontrolled falls.

3. Evacuation Kits

   • Evacuation kits are designed to be used in extreme situations where rapid escape is necessary, such as a fire or structural failure of the turbine. The RESQ Solo X automatic personal and RESQ RedPro X are great examples of such equipment.
     • Pros: Quick deployment and ease of use can help technicians evacuate rapidly in high-risk situations.
     • Cons: Often designed for single-use, requiring replacement after deployment. Limited versatility compared to other rescue systems.

4. Rescue Stretchers and Backboards

   • These are used when a technician is injured and needs to be transported from the turbine.
     • Pros: Provides necessary support for an injured technician, ensuring their spine and neck are protected during transport.
     • Cons: Requires multiple rescuers to operate, making it less efficient in situations where team size is limited.

5. Winches and Mechanical Advantage Systems

   • These are used to hoist a fallen or injured technician to safety.
     • Pros: Offers significant lifting capacity with minimal effort from rescuers. Essential in situations where technicians need to be raised to safety rather than lowered.
     • Cons: Heavier and more complex to set up. Improper use can result in rescue failure or even exacerbate the injury.

The Importance of a Variety of Rescue Solutions

Given the wide range of challenges posed by working on wind turbines, it is essential for teams to have access to multiple rescue options. Turbines vary in height, design, and access points, meaning that a one-size-fits-all approach is rarely effective. In addition, emergencies may differ; a technician who has fallen may require a different rescue method than one who has become incapacitated due to heat stroke or electrical shock.

For instance, a descent device may be ideal for a technician working near the top of a turbine, while a pulley-based rescue system might be necessary for those at lower levels or in more confined spaces. Access to stretchers, winches, and mechanical advantage systems allows for rapid response to a variety of situations, reducing rescue times and minimizing injury risk.

Furthermore, frequent training and drills are critical for ensuring that wind technician teams are familiar with the equipment and can respond swiftly in emergencies. Rescue plans must be customized to specific turbine sites, and teams must be well-versed in both individual and team-based rescue scenarios.

Conclusion

The safety of wind technicians relies heavily on the proper use of PPE and rescue equipment. While PPE such as harnesses, helmets, and gloves provide crucial protection during routine operations, rescue equipment is vital for responding to emergencies. By equipping wind technician teams with a variety of rescue solutions and ensuring regular training, companies can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death in the high-risk environments where these technicians work. The right combination of gear and preparedness is essential for maintaining safety at towering heights.

Becoming a Global Wind Organization (GWO) training instructor is an exciting and rewarding career choice for individuals passionate about renewable energy and safety training. The wind energy sector is rapidly growing, and so is the demand for skilled professionals capable of providing high-quality GWO training is an internationally recognized organization that develops safety training standards for the wind industry. To become a GWO training instructor, there are several steps, qualifications, and skills you need to acquire. This guide will walk you through the process, from understanding GWO’s role to the certifications and experience necessary to succeed in this field.

1. Understanding the Role of the Global Wind Organization

Before diving into how to become a GWO training instructor, it’s essential to understand the organization’s role and the significance of its standards.

The Global Wind Organization is a non-profit organization established by leading wind turbine manufacturers and operators. Its primary goal is to create a safe work environment for workers in the wind energy sector by developing internationally accepted training standards. These standards are designed to ensure that workers have the necessary skills to work safely in wind turbines and other wind energy facilities.

The core GWO training modules focus on areas such as:

• Basic Safety Training (BST), which covers First Aid, Manual Handling, Fire Awareness, and Working at Heights.
• Basic Technical Training (BTT), which includes mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic technical skills.

As a GWO training instructor, your responsibility will be to deliver these training modules to professionals working in the wind industry, ensuring they meet safety and technical standards.

2. Prerequisites and Qualifications

A. Relevant Background and Experience

To become a GWO instructor, you must possess relevant experience in either the wind energy sector or other related industries. A background in fields such as mechanical or electrical engineering, health and safety, emergency response, or rescue operations would be particularly valuable.

Typically, GWO instructors come from one or more of the following backgrounds:

• Wind Turbine Technician: Having hands-on experience with wind turbines, including maintenance and installation, provides a strong foundation for delivering GWO training.
• Health and Safety Specialist: A background in occupational health and safety gives you an advantage, especially when training individuals in safety procedures and standards.
• Emergency Services Professional: Experience as a firefighter, paramedic, or search and rescue worker can be beneficial, particularly for teaching modules like First Aid and Fire Awareness.

B. Education and Certifications

While there isn’t a strict educational requirement, many GWO training instructors have formal education in engineering, safety management, or a related technical field. A bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline is helpful but not mandatory.

In terms of certifications, you need to complete the relevant GWO training yourself before teaching it. This includes obtaining certifications in the courses you plan to instruct, such as:

• GWO Basic Safety Training (BST)
• GWO Basic Technical Training (BTT)
• GWO Advanced Rescue Training (ART), if applicable

Many instructors also hold additional safety certifications, such as NEBOSH (National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health) or IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) qualifications, which demonstrate a commitment to health and safety best practices.

3. Completing Instructor Qualification Training

Once you have the necessary background and certifications, the next step is to undergo instructor qualification training. GWO has strict requirements for instructors, and you must meet these standards before you are eligible to train others. This training is usually offered by GWO-certified training providers and focuses on two main areas:

A. GWO Instructor Certification

To deliver GWO-certified courses, you must first become a certified GWO instructor. This certification typically involves:

• Attending a Train-the-Trainer course: These courses are designed to teach you how to deliver GWO modules effectively. You will learn about adult learning techniques, instructional design, and practical delivery methods.
• Passing an assessment: After completing the instructor training, you must pass an assessment to demonstrate your ability to deliver the course material. This often includes both theoretical knowledge and practical teaching demonstrations.

B. Familiarization with GWO Standards and Guidelines

You will need to familiarize yourself with GWO standards, guidelines, and updates regularly. GWO is committed to maintaining high safety standards, and as an instructor, you are responsible for ensuring that your training complies with the latest guidelines. This means staying up-to-date with new course materials, changes to existing modules, and any other relevant developments.

4. Working for a GWO-Certified Training Provider

To officially deliver GWO training, you must work for or be affiliated with a GWO-certified training provider. These are organizations accredited by GWO to deliver their approved courses. Becoming an instructor for a certified provider gives you access to the resources, facilities, and equipment necessary to conduct high-quality training sessions.

A. Choosing a Training Provider

When selecting a training provider to work with, consider factors such as:

• Reputation: Look for providers with a solid track record of delivering GWO-certified training and a commitment to maintaining high standards.
• Facilities and Equipment: Ensure the training provider has the appropriate facilities, such as towers for working at heights or simulation equipment for rescue training. High-quality facilities enhance the learning experience for trainees and provide you with the tools needed to teach effectively.
• Support and Development: Choose a provider that offers ongoing professional development opportunities. This may include access to advanced courses, additional certifications, or workshops that help you stay current with industry trends and GWO standards.

B. Freelancing vs. Employment

As a GWO instructor, you may have the option to work as a full-time employee for a training provider or offer your services as a freelancer. Both paths have their advantages:

• Full-time employment provides job security, a steady income, and access to a wide range of training resources and support.
• Freelancing offers flexibility and the ability to work with multiple training providers or clients. This option might appeal to experienced professionals who want to take control of their schedules.

5. Maintaining Your Instructor Status

Once you are a certified GWO instructor, you must maintain your qualifications through ongoing professional development and recertification.

A. Continuous Professional Development (CPD)

CPD is critical in ensuring that you remain competent and up-to-date with the latest safety standards and teaching methods. As a GWO instructor, you should participate in regular refresher courses, attend industry conferences, and keep abreast of technological advancements in the wind energy sector.

B. Recertification

GWO instructor certifications are valid for a set period (usually two years), after which you must undergo recertification to continue delivering training. This process involves completing refresher courses and reassessments to ensure that you still meet GWO’s high standards.

6. Building a Strong Career as a GWO Instructor

Finally, becoming a successful GWO training instructor goes beyond meeting the basic qualifications. To build a strong career, you need to focus on the following:

• Effective Communication: Being able to clearly convey complex technical information in an understandable way is essential to your success as an instructor.
• Passion for Safety: As a GWO instructor, you are responsible for the safety and well-being of your trainees. A genuine commitment to safety and high standards is crucial.
• Networking: Building connections within the wind energy sector, including other instructors, industry experts, and employers, can open doors to new opportunities and career growth.

By following these steps and dedicating yourself to the field, you can establish yourself as a trusted, knowledgeable GWO training instructor.

Full service training for wind technicians is a comprehensive educational program that equips individuals with the necessary knowledge, skills, and safety practices to perform a wide range of tasks related to the operation, maintenance, and repair of wind turbines. This type of training prepares technicians for the diverse challenges they will encounter while working in the wind energy sector, covering both technical and safety aspects.

Wind technicians face a wide range of challenges, from electrical hazards to mechanical malfunctions, often while working at significant heights and in remote areas. Full service training ensures that technicians are not only equipped to handle these technical tasks but also to do so safely, reducing the risk of accidents and improving the reliability of wind turbines.

Full service training typically includes certifications like the Global Wind Organisation (GWO) training modules, which are globally recognized and essential for working in the wind energy industry. These certifications ensure technicians have a standard level of competence in safety and technical skills.

Key Components of Full Service Training for Wind Technicians

Electrical Systems Training:

• Understanding the electrical components of wind turbines, including generators, converters, inverters, and transformers.
• Training in troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance of both low and high-voltage systems.
• Arc flash, shock protection, and lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures for electrical safety.

Mechanical Systems Training:

• Instruction on the mechanical elements of turbines, such as gearboxes, yaw systems, and hydraulic systems.
• Skills in lubrication, component replacement, and mechanical troubleshooting.
• Vibration analysis and other diagnostic techniques to identify potential mechanical issues.

Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems:

• Understanding the hydraulic systems used for braking, pitch control, and other turbine functions.
• Training in fluid power systems, hydraulic pumps, and actuators.

Turbine Operations and Control Systems:

• Training in turbine control software, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, and performance monitoring.
• Instruction on operational parameters, troubleshooting control systems, and remote monitoring techniques.

Safety Training:

• In-depth training on working at heights, confined spaces, and emergency rescue techniques.
• GWO (Global Wind Organisation) certifications in first aid, manual handling, fire awareness, and working at heights.
• Electrical safety (NFPA 70E and GWO CoHE standards), personal protective equipment (PPE), and fall protection systems.

Climbing and Rescue Techniques:

• Training in how to safely climb wind turbines, including the use of fall arrest systems and ladders.
• Emergency evacuation and rescue procedures, including self-rescue and assisting injured colleagues from height.

Preventive Maintenance:

• Routine maintenance tasks such as inspecting and testing equipment, cleaning turbine components, and tightening bolts.
• Understanding predictive maintenance techniques, like thermography and oil analysis, to prevent failures.

Environmental and Site-Specific Training:

• Training in environmental regulations and the impacts of wind farm operations.
• Site-specific skills, including working in offshore wind farms, remote locations, and harsh weather conditions.

Ongoing skills development is essential for wind technicians to keep pace with the evolving technologies and challenges of the wind energy industry. From technical expertise in electrical and mechanical systems to advanced safety practices, leadership, and environmental compliance, continuous learning makes technicians more effective, safer, and better prepared to handle the complexities of modern wind turbine maintenance.

Advanced Electrical and Mechanical Expertise

• Electrical Systems: Wind turbines are becoming more technologically advanced, with more sophisticated electrical components and control systems. Continuing education in advanced electrical troubleshooting, high-voltage safety, and diagnostics is essential for improving technical capabilities.
• Mechanical Systems: Technicians should continually improve their understanding of turbine mechanics, including gearboxes, yaw, and pitch systems. Advanced training in vibration analysis, lubrication techniques, and failure prediction will help them better maintain and repair turbines.

Control Systems and SCADA

• SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) Systems: Wind farms use SCADA to monitor turbine performance and diagnose issues remotely. Learning to interpret data, troubleshoot control systems, and optimize turbine operations through SCADA will enhance efficiency and reduce downtime.
• Automation and Software Updates: As turbines become more automated, technicians should stay updated on new software and control algorithms. This ensures they can operate and troubleshoot the latest turbine models effectively.

Predictive and Preventive Maintenance Techniques

• Predictive Maintenance: Understanding and using predictive maintenance tools such as thermography, oil analysis, and vibration monitoring helps technicians identify potential problems before they cause failures. Developing these skills enables better planning and reduces costly turbine downtime.
• Preventive Maintenance Practices: Technicians should regularly improve their ability to perform routine checks, tighten components, and clean equipment. Familiarity with new preventive maintenance tools and techniques will boost operational reliability.

GWO Certifications and Safety Practices

• Advanced Safety Training: GWO (Global Wind Organisation) provides various safety certifications, such as working at heights, first aid, and fire safety. Staying current with certifications and pursuing higher-level courses in rescue techniques, confined space entry, and offshore safety will ensure technicians are fully prepared for emergencies.
• Electrical Safety (NFPA 70E and GWO CoHE): Expanding knowledge of electrical safety standards and hazardous energy control will further reduce risks related to high-voltage work and enhance technicians’ ability to protect themselves and their team.

Working at Heights and Rescue Techniques

• Climbing Proficiency: Ongoing practice with climbing techniques, fall protection systems, and emergency rescue scenarios ensures technicians can work confidently at height. This also includes learning self-rescue and team rescue skills.
• Advanced Rescue Techniques: Specialized rescue training for difficult conditions, such as offshore environments or extreme weather, helps improve the technician’s response to emergencies and difficult rescue scenarios.

Technology and Renewable Energy Innovations

• Wind Energy Technology Advancements: The wind energy industry is rapidly evolving, with new turbine designs, materials, and operational systems. Wind technicians must keep learning about these innovations to maintain the latest models and apply modern maintenance strategies.
• Digitalization and Data Analytics: As the wind sector embraces data-driven operations, technicians with skills in data analytics can better interpret turbine performance metrics, predict failures, and improve energy output. Courses in data management and analytics would be valuable.

Leadership and Communication Skills

• Team Leadership: As technicians gain experience, they may take on leadership roles within maintenance teams. Developing leadership skills like team management, task coordination, and decision-making can improve overall team performance.
• Communication Skills: Effective communication, both with team members and remote operations centers, is crucial for coordinating maintenance activities and ensuring safe operations. Technicians should develop clear and precise communication skills, especially in emergency situations.

Cross-Specialization

• Multi-Disciplinary Knowledge: Technicians can become more valuable by gaining skills across multiple technical areas. For example, gaining expertise in hydraulic and pneumatic systems in addition to electrical and mechanical knowledge enables them to work on different parts of the turbine more effectively.
• Offshore Wind Training: For technicians interested in offshore wind energy, gaining specialized training for offshore turbines, boat transfers, and working in marine environments adds a significant skill set to their repertoire.

Environmental Awareness and Compliance

• Environmental Regulations and Sustainability: As environmental regulations tighten, technicians need to understand compliance issues related to waste disposal, oil spills, and noise reduction. Learning best practices for sustainability ensures operations adhere to regulations while minimizing the environmental impact of wind farms.

Technician Well-Being and Physical Fitness

• Physical Conditioning: The physical demands of climbing and working in challenging environments require technicians to maintain strong physical health. Ongoing fitness training and understanding ergonomics are essential for long-term career sustainability.
• Mental Health and Stress Management: Technicians often work in isolated or stressful environments. Awareness of mental health practices and techniques for managing stress can help them stay focused, perform well under pressure, and maintain overall well-being.

Excellent electrical safety training and skills are crucial for wind technicians due to the unique and hazardous nature of their work. Wind turbines operate with complex electrical systems, including both low and high-voltage circuits, and technicians frequently work in challenging conditions, such as at great heights and in remote locations. These factors heighten the risks associated with electrical work and make rigorous safety training essential.

Firstly, wind turbines often utilize high-voltage systems to convert and transmit energy, exposing technicians to potentially fatal hazards like electrical shock, arc flash, and arc blast. Proper training ensures technicians understand these dangers, how to mitigate them, and how to follow safe work practices. Knowledge of personal protective equipment (PPE), Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures, and approach boundaries are critical to preventing accidents during routine maintenance or troubleshooting tasks.

Secondly, electrical incidents in wind turbines can lead to catastrophic consequences, including fires, equipment damage, and serious injury or death. Electrical safety training helps technicians perform risk assessments, identify hazards, and apply appropriate safety measures before beginning work. This proactive approach minimizes the chances of accidents and enhances technicians’ ability to work safely under pressure.

Additionally, rapid technological advancements in the wind industry introduce new, sophisticated electrical components. Technicians must possess up-to-date skills to understand these systems, troubleshoot them effectively, and remain compliant with safety standards like NFPA 70E or GWO CoHE.

Finally, the remote and elevated nature of wind turbine work adds further complexity. Emergency responses in these environments can be challenging, making it vital for technicians to follow stringent electrical safety protocols to reduce the likelihood of incidents.

NFPA 70E is a standard developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) focused on electrical safety in the workplace. It outlines practices and procedures to protect workers from electrical hazards, such as shock, arc flash, and arc blast. The standard provides guidelines for safe work practices, personal protective equipment (PPE), risk assessment, and the establishment of electrically safe working conditions.

For wind technicians, NFPA 70E is highly applicable because they regularly work with both low and high-voltage electrical systems in wind turbines. These systems can expose technicians to significant risks, including electrical shock, arc flash, and fires. Following NFPA 70E helps wind technicians to safely perform maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs by using proper procedures like Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), arc flash protection, and ensuring they are trained and qualified to work on live electrical parts.

The standard also mandates appropriate PPE, safe approach boundaries, and the need for detailed risk assessments before performing any electrical work. By adhering to NFPA 70E, wind technicians minimize the risks associated with electrical work, ensuring safer operations in the high-risk wind energy sector.

The Global Wind Organisation (GWO) Control of Hazardous Energies (CoHE) training standard is designed to ensure the safety of wind technicians when working with potentially hazardous energies in wind turbines, such as electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems. The CoHE training focuses on providing technicians with the knowledge and skills to safely isolate, control, and de-energize equipment, reducing the risk of injury or accidents in wind farms.

Applicability to Wind Technicians

For wind technicians, the GWO CoHE standard is essential because their work often involves interaction with various energy systems in wind turbines during maintenance, repair, and inspection activities. The CoHE training ensures they can safely manage these energy sources by:

1. Identifying Hazards: Technicians are trained to recognize potential energy-related risks (e.g., moving parts, high voltage).
2. Isolating Energy Sources: They learn how to safely isolate turbines from energy sources using Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures and other safety mechanisms.
3. Verifying De-Energization: After isolation, technicians are trained to confirm the absence of hazardous energy before performing work.
4. Applying Safety Procedures: They follow structured safety procedures to prevent inadvertent re-energization while working on turbines.

This training ensures that wind technicians can competently control and manage hazardous energy, helping to prevent accidents, equipment damage, or electrical shock during operations.

Difference Between GWO CoHE and NFPA 70E

While both GWO CoHE and NFPA 70E address electrical safety, they differ in their focus and scope:

• NFPA 70E is a comprehensive standard that covers workplace electrical safety across multiple industries, focusing primarily on electrical hazards, such as arc flash, electric shock, and arc blast. It provides detailed guidelines on electrical risk assessment, use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and safe work practices specific to electrical systems. NFPA 70E is widely used in the U.S. and addresses electrical hazards in various sectors, including wind energy.

• GWO CoHE, on the other hand, is specifically tailored to the wind energy industry and covers multiple types of hazardous energy sources, not just electrical. While electrical hazards are a part of the training, CoHE also emphasizes controlling other energy types found in wind turbines, such as mechanical and hydraulic. The CoHE training provides a more industry-specific, holistic approach to managing the diverse energy hazards wind technicians face.

In summary, NFPA 70E is more focused on electrical safety, whereas GWO CoHE offers a broader, wind industry-specific approach to handling various hazardous energies.