Industry Leaders Explore the Role of Standardisation in Key Workforce Offshore Wind Accelerator Project

In May 2026, Brian Davidsen, Training Project Manager at GWO travelled to the National Decommissioning Centre, a global leader in Research & Development (R&D) in the energy industry in Newburgh, Aberdeenshire, to share perspectives at the Offshore Wind Accelerator (OWA) WTS Project – Walk-to-Work Interface Standardisation Workshop.

The workshop, delivered by Blackfish Engineering, a UK-based consultancy with expertise in offshore wind operations, focused on one of the sector’s high-risk operational areas: Walk-to-Work systems, which enable technicians and offshore personnel to safely transfer between vessels and wind turbine structures.

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With vessel operators, gangway suppliers, turbine manufacturers, industry bodies and GWO members in attendance, Brian presented on “Walk-to-Work from a Training Perspective”, offering insights into the role of standardised training in supporting safer and more efficient Walk-to-Work operations.

Reflecting on the workshop, Brian commented:

“Walk-to-Work is becoming an increasingly common aspect of workforce competency across the offshore wind industry. User awareness, safe behaviour, clear communication and an understanding of gangway systems are essential parts of ensuring safe personnel transfer. With GWO’s recent update to the BST Sea Survival module, informed by in-depth stakeholder insights into Walk-to-Work awareness, this workshop reflects the wider industry recognition that workforce competency and safety training must continue to evolve and improve operational practices.”

GWO would like to thank Blackfish Engineering and the OWA WTS Project team for the invitation and for facilitating such a valuable and informative workshop.

Want to learn more about the BST Sea Survival Walk-to-Work content?

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