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5 July 2024
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Mocked-up oilrig to train helicopter firefighting, UK
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Offshore workers are to be taught how to tackle helicopter fires aboard a mocked-up oil rig. County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service's (CDDFRS) said the helicopter simulator and helideck at its Bowburn training centre would teach staff how to deal with "worst case scenarios". The three-storey rig is part of a new training zone which will also be used to train workers from around the world, the service said.
Training centre director Rob Cherrie, said, "When you’re offshore, you can’t just dial 999 and expect immediate assistance. I really cannot stress enough how vital this new equipment and the enhanced training it offers will be to people working in the offshore sector.
"Offshore firefighters are more likely than others to face scenarios such as helicopter fires or pressurised oil fires, so individuals need to be well-trained and self-sufficient."
The facility was established with a "six-figure investment" and has been accredited by Opito, the oil and gas industry training body.
“This is a joint venture between 3t Training Services, the UK’s largest energy sector training provider and Vital Fire Solutions – our trading arm. The state-of-the-art facility features a helicopter simulator, along with a full-size helideck, allowing us to offer a number of new courses for offshore workers. This training zone is a fantastic asset to the region and we hope there will be a good knock on effect for the local economy, helping to keep local hotels, inns and restaurants busy. Already it has created two full time and several part time jobs at VFS with more on the horizon. We also utilised local companies and contractors during the building of the training zone.”
Source: County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, BBC News
Training centre director Rob Cherrie, said, "When you’re offshore, you can’t just dial 999 and expect immediate assistance. I really cannot stress enough how vital this new equipment and the enhanced training it offers will be to people working in the offshore sector.
"Offshore firefighters are more likely than others to face scenarios such as helicopter fires or pressurised oil fires, so individuals need to be well-trained and self-sufficient."
The facility was established with a "six-figure investment" and has been accredited by Opito, the oil and gas industry training body.
“This is a joint venture between 3t Training Services, the UK’s largest energy sector training provider and Vital Fire Solutions – our trading arm. The state-of-the-art facility features a helicopter simulator, along with a full-size helideck, allowing us to offer a number of new courses for offshore workers. This training zone is a fantastic asset to the region and we hope there will be a good knock on effect for the local economy, helping to keep local hotels, inns and restaurants busy. Already it has created two full time and several part time jobs at VFS with more on the horizon. We also utilised local companies and contractors during the building of the training zone.”
Source: County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, BBC News