Delivered through a combination of theory and extensive hands-on training, the course enables participants to gain practical experience operating a range of open and totally enclosed lifeboats, as well as inflatable rescue boats, using various davit systems at our fully equipped pier head facility.

In addition to covering the key features and functions of different survival craft and their associated launching appliances, the training places a strong emphasis on adherence to safe operating procedures and best practice in emergency situations.

• Emergency situations
• Taking charge of a survival craft or rescue boat during or after launch
• Principles of survival
• Survivor and survival craft management after abandoning ship
• First aid application to survivors
• Radio equipment
• Signalling for rescue
• Operation of a survival craft engine and rowing practice
• Use of locating devices including communication and signalling apparatus

This is a 5-day course, which requires in-person attendance. When joining this course please ensure you bring the following items with you:

• Swim wear, wash gear and towel, Wet weather gear/PPE, hard boots/shoes, warm clothes, change of clothes, €1 coin for safety locker

Please note: Students should be in possession of an in date/valid Medical Certificate. All students will be asked to fill out a medical questionnaire before the course

Skillnet Course Fee: € TBC

Full Course Fee: € TBC

Eligibility for the subsidised Skillnet Course Fee is based on the following factors:

Trainees

Key requirements regarding the trainee:

• Trainees must be based in the Republic of Ireland to be eligible.
• Trainees must be employed within private enterprise/self-employed.
• This program is designed for professionals working in a related sector, seeking to upskill and transition into the offshore wind industry.

Companies

Key requirements regarding the eligibility of businesses to participate in funding:

• Companies must be from private enterprise based in the Republic of Ireland.
• Skillnet Ireland funding is not available to public sector bodies or organisations that are publicly funded such as community-based not-for-profit companies or charities.
• Commercial semi-state companies are eligible providing that income contributed to a Network is not sourced from the public purse.
• Sole traders are eligible as Companies.

If you are not eligible for funding then the full course fee will apply. Where a trainee enrols on a course and pays the full fee, no refund will be provided if eligibility is determined later.

If you have further queries on funding, please contact training@skillnetoffshorewindacademy.ie including the module you wish to apply for.

• Candidates must be aged 18 years or over.
• Candidates must have completed the four basic courses covering familiarisation and basic safety training and instruction in accordance with Regulation VI/1 of STCW 1995:
  • STCW Fire Prevention & Firefighting
  • STCW Personal Survival Techniques course
  • STCW Personal Safety & Social Responsibility
  • STCW Elementary First Aid
• Candidates must have evidence of approved sea-going service of not less than 6 months. Please note that all sea-time must be approved by the Dept. of Transport in advance of course commencement.
• Candidates must be medically certified by a doctor to be in good health (ENG 11 / Doctors Note).

• Candidates involved in taking charge of the launching or handling of survival craft, who meet the entry requirements of this course.

• Companies seeking to develop and upskill their workforce to undertake projects related to offshore wind farm development.

Career Pathways:

This course supports progression into a career as an Able Seafarer within the offshore wind sector, working across multiple stages of project development. Able Seafarers play a vital role in the safe and efficient operation of vessels supporting offshore wind activities, from construction and installation to operations and maintenance. The role involves a broad range of duties, including deck operations, cargo handling, vessel maintenance, and navigational support, contributing directly to the successful delivery of offshore wind projects.

Progression:

Further study opportunities for learners completing this course include targeted training to enhance maritime skills and employability within the offshore wind sector. Recommended progression options include:

• Introduction to Offshore Wind Energy,
• Master/OOW Less than 500gt for ORE,
• Personal Survival Techniques – STCW.

These courses provide the industry-specific knowledge, vessel operation credentials, and statutory safety training essential for working effectively on offshore wind projects.

To learn more about or to apply for this course, please contact training@skillnetoffshorewindacademy.ie