Scaling New Heights: Mitigating Risks in Wind Energy Lifting Operations Through Advanced Simulator Training 

Lifting operations are a critical component of the wind energy sector, influencing installation timelines, maintenance efficiency, and overall project costs. Advancements in lifting technologies, combined with stringent safety measures, continue to improve operational efficiency and ensure the long-term sustainability of wind power projects. At RelyOn, within our network of global training centers we aim to help our clients with the most up to date technology to increase their operational efficiency and safety while reducing costs. Our dynamic simulator technology provides a high-fidelity learning experience with unmatched realism to ensure optimal training outcomes. 

Lifting heavy loads is a central component of many industrial processes starting from machine installation, maintenance and repairs to decommissioning of the work equipment. Performing the central task of lifting operations with the help of cranes requires precision and familiarity with safe practices from the operator to keep the work running smoothly. The wind energy sector also relies heavily on complex lifting operations to install, maintain, and decommission wind turbines. Given the size and weight of turbine components, specialized lifting equipment and procedures are essential to ensure safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

The Challenges of Lifting Operations in Wind Energy 

Wind energy is booming, and with it, the demand for highly skilled and safety-conscious technicians to carry out complex operations in the most secure way possible. Lifting operations in the wind industry poses many challenges for crane operators such as harsh weather conditions, strong winds and waves, the heavy turbine components requiring advanced lifting strategies and high-capacity cranes. Lifting operations further pose significant risks, including load instability, equipment failure, therefore adhering to strict safety protocols and using real-time monitoring systems can help mitigate these risks. 

According to a study carried out by G+, in 2023 most offshore wind incidents happened during lifting operations – the work process with the highest number of accidents year on year, and it stands out particularly as having the largest number of dropped object incidents in 2023. Incidents, while innate part of any work settings, shall be avoided at all costs. Usually, the cause of these incidents is the lack of training and safety awareness amongst personnel, resulting in a dangerous work environment for all people working on-site, machine damage and finally, increased costs for the companies deploying them. While lifting operations caused less bodily harm, it accounted for more asset damage over the course of the year.

Advancing Safety Through Simulation-Based Training 

Lifting is a highly specialized field that demands a high level of technical expertise and adherence to strict safety protocols. Focused on providing specialized training and consulting, RelyOn offers training packages, technical consultancy, and we are a market-leading provider of simulation training for port and offshore crane operations. Simulators offer a safe training environment that allows crane operators to accelerate their skill development, gain hands-on lifting experience, and build competence. Experience has shown that training with simulation technology is an unmatched and effective method for rapidly enhancing operators' abilities and confidence. Simulators can enable course takers to test their abilities against a wide range of situations such as: 

• Realistic Environmental Conditions: The simulator allows for adjustable settings for wave height, wind, rain, fog, and snow, mimicking actual work environments, preparing personnel for all kinds of environmental challenges.  

• Comprehensive Scenario Simulation: Our simulation technology allows us to recreate multiple crane models, offshore installations, various cargo, and boat types. This way our trainees can interact with diverse containers, goods, and deck objects.  

• Critical Failure Simulations: Simulating scenarios such as hydraulic malfunctions, power outages, cable breaks, and unexpected load drops prepare operators for real-world incidents that can occur any time during their workday.  

Simulator training provides a safe, risk-free environment for hands-on experience, enhancing on-the-job training and overall performance while it evaluates and improves the course taker’s readiness for complex situations, ensuring strong alignment with safety protocols and standards. Simulators can also provide an amicable tool to assess the competency levels of new hires. The simulator can act as an assessment tool where candidates show the proficient skills needed for a particular job they are hired to perform. Our fleet of simulators also enables reassessment of crane operators against international standards at training centers worldwide, or even at the worksite where the actual lifting operation takes place.

Conclusion 

As the wind energy sector continues to expand, the importance of safe and efficient lifting operations cannot be overstated. Advanced simulation training is a game-changer, equipping crane operators with the necessary skills to handle challenging lifting scenarios while minimizing risks and improving overall efficiency. By leveraging cutting-edge training solutions, companies can ensure a safer work environment, reduce equipment damage, and optimize costs. RelyOn remains at the forefront of this transformation, providing state-of-the-art simulation technology to prepare professionals for the demands of wind energy lifting operations.