Wind turbine manufacturers and owner operators have formed a North America committee under the auspices of the Global Wind Organisation aimed at optimising supply chain and talent from certified training providers.
The committee includes members from GE (onshore and offshore), Equinor, Acciona, Eon, Enercon, Nordex, Vestas, Siemens Gamesa and Orsted.
GWO is responsible for a portfolio of training standards designed for the industry, by the industry.
Modules cover basic safety and technical training, as well as advanced rescue training, enhanced first aid and blade repair.
A new rigger signal person training standard will be available from 1 October.
Training records are verified online through the GWO WINDA database, allowing companies to check the certification status of their employees and potential recruits.
GWO North America committee chair and EHS leader for GE Wind Onshore Brian Walencik said: “The wind turbine industry is growing as the demand for renewable energy is accelerating.
“The challenge we all face is hiring qualified technicians who have recognisable safety training and technical skills so they can more efficiently and effectively help meet demand while reducing total injuries.”
The US wind industry now employs 114,000 men and women, according to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA).
Walencik added: “The role of our committee is to determine the best ways to collaborate on standardized training and procedures to benefit the industry, training providers, our employees and contractors. At the end of the day, the goal is simple: safety.”