| Written by Michal Wozniakowski-Zehenter

A new report by the Offshore Wind Industry Council (OWIC) shows a significant increase in jobs in the offshore wind sector by 2030 – with forecast jobs exceeding 100,000 for the first time, and a dramatic surge of workers required over the next seven years. To manage the expected offshore wind project pipeline, the industry needs to be able to attract and retain an average of 10,000 people per year. The report features recommendations for achieving this and calls for an industry workforce strategy to be established, identifying that a new approach to recruitment and retention is vital to support the huge upcoming pipeline of work. Plenty of them will be related to safety. So, what does it takes to work in the offshore industry? 
Wind energy safety jobs
 

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Understanding Offshore

There's a shift to green energy, and offshore wind farms are gaining in popularity. The wind farms are located where the wind is abundant, so they use it to make electricity. These wind farms operate with large turbines that are either on a floating structure or anchored to the sea floor, reducing global dependency on fossil fuels and reducing carbon emissions. They help mitigate climate change. Through underwater cables, they send the electricity they produce to land, providing communities with renewable energy. Because they're placed over water, they get stronger winds than those on land, so they generate more energy. However, working in offshore environments is dangerous. Worker safety is emphasized because of marine conditions, varying weather, and managing large-scale machinery at sea. With its strong winds, high waves, and distance from medical help, ocean environments are unpredictable.

Specialized safety roles have been created to deal effectively with different threats. They're responsible for worker safety and equipment efficiency. They make sure the safety measures are up to date, develop emergency plans (learn more about emergency mustering), and make sure regular maintenance happens. Many workers get safety training and gear, like life jackets and harnesses, and they learn how to work in harsh conditions. Safety professionals also think about the impact of wind farms on the environment. It involves putting turbines where they belong, monitoring wildlife, and preventing pollution so that the wind farms can coexist with their surroundings.

 

Wind Energy Safety Jobs: Challenges

Working in this branch presents a unique set of challenges, but it is also a deeply rewarding experience. One of the biggest obstacles for offshore workers is the harsh and unpredictable weather conditions. High winds, heavy rain, and rough seas require a high level of preparation and adaptability. Furthermore, wind farms are often located far from the mainland, so they pose logistical challenges, like access to supplies and emergency services. Because of its remoteness, it's important to be constantly vigilant because hazards can emerge quickly due to changing weather conditions or operational activities. Aside from the long hours and sometimes strenuous activities, it's also mentally taxing to take care of others' safety. However, there's also a lot to love about it. The knowledge that one's work contributes directly to the growth of sustainable and renewable energy sources, which play a crucial role in fighting climate change, is one of the most rewarding aspects. In those roles, safety professionals get to learn a huge number of skills, like crisis management, problem-solving, and renewable energy tech, while gaining a lot of personal and professional development opportunities. The shared challenges and objectives foster a close-knit and collaborative working environment among those working on offshore wind projects despite their remote work locations. Offshore wind energy safety professionals can take advantage of this growth and diversify their careers.

 

Wind Energy Safety Jobs - Key roles

The Safety Officers at offshore wind farms make sure safety standards are met by performing extensive worksite safety inspections and regular audits of equipment and facilities. As well as developing and delivering safety training programs, they have to deal with high-risk offshore environments. It's these officers who lead the response effort when there's an offshore incident, investigating the root causes and coming up with strategies to prevent similar situations from happening again. In addition, they organize things like safety awareness campaigns, safety meetings, and recognitions to encourage a safety-first attitude among the workforce. It's up to Emergency Response Coordinators to manage and prepare for emergencies. Offshore operations pose a lot of risks, like extreme weather and equipment malfunctions. These coordinators make sure staff knows what to do in an emergency through drills and simulations. Besides interacting with external emergency services and government agencies, the team makes sure emergencies are handled unified. They keep emergency supplies and offshore safety equipment on stand-by so they're always ready and available. Health & Safety Engineers embed safety into the design and operation process. To maximize safety, they design and implement cutting-edge systems and measures using the latest technology. In addition to identifying trends, they develop proactive strategies to mitigate risks by analysing accident and incident data. They make sure safety systems and practices meet current industry standards and legal requirements as part of their job.

 

Requirements

Offshore wind energy safety jobs require a solid educational background. It's usually a degree in safety management or environmental engineering. Offshore wind farms are very complex, so these degrees equip candidates with the theoretical and technical knowledge they need. You'll get a better understanding of wind turbines and associated structures if you have a background in mechanical or electrical engineering. There might also be a need for specialized maritime operations training in some positions, due to the unique challenges offshore. Because they deal with hazards and risk mitigation a lot, professionals in this field need to excel at problem-solving. Communication is essential for articulating safety procedures and working with different teams. Analytical skills are also needed to analyse safety data and make improvements. In addition to certifications, there's also Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET), which teaches you how to handle an emergency. You might need certifications like First Aid, Firefighting, and Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET) if you want to keep yourself and your team safe offshore.

 

FAQS

Is an offshore wind safety job a good profession?

Working in an offshore position provides numerous benefits, such as competitive pay, stable employment, exciting experiences, and chances for professional growth. Nonetheless, it's essential to consider the possible drawbacks. In the end, choosing to pursue an offshore career should align with your individual aspirations, principles, and what you prioritize in life.

How many offshore wind farms does the UK have?

Currently, offshore wind energy accounts for approximately 13% of the United Kingdom's electricity generation. The UK boasts about 12.7 gigawatts of connected offshore wind power spread across 44 wind farms with more than 2,500 turbines. In 2021, the UK added more than 2.3 gigawatts of new offshore wind capacity, constituting 70% of Europe's total new installations for that year.

Where to search for wind energy safety jobs?

Getting a job in offshore wind energy safety is exciting and challenging. Getting the right education and certifications is key, as we discussed in previous chapters. In the digital world, finding jobs has been a little bit easier. Regularly visiting the websites of key players in the industry, such as Equinor, is a perfect start. Offshore wind energy safety jobs are available on websites like RenewableEnergyJobs, WindJobs, and Indeed. Networking is important in the job search. Connecting with professionals and learning about unadvertised jobs at events, seminars, and conferences is great. Recruiting agencies specializing in green energy can be a great resource, too, like the Global Wind Energy Council or RenewableUK. Recruiting firms like Spencer Ogden, Cathcart Energy, Allen & York and Mane Contract Services can help you find the right offshore wind job. In addition, online forums and discussion boards can provide job leads and advice. Finally, keep up with industry trends and technology. Continuous learning and adaptability are key in this ever-changing industry. 

 

TAKEAWAY

Safety jobs in the offshore wind energy sector are a must for the sustainable growth and operational success of wind energy initiatives. These positions demand a specific set of educational qualifications, such as degrees in safety management or engineering, and critical skills like problem-solving and communication. Additionally, certifications like BOSIET and HUET are essential for preparing workers and individuals to handle the unique challenges of the offshore environment. The article highlights. As the world increasingly relies on renewable sources like wind energy, the role of these safety professionals becomes ever more crucial in supporting global sustainable energy goals.

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