OEG, a leading energy solutions business, has achieved OPITO accreditation for its Helicopter Refuelling Training (HRT) course, underlining the company’s ongoing commitment to safety and operational excellence in the energy sector.
The OPITO Helicopter Refuelling Training Standard 9255 was introduced by the global energy workforce safety organisation in collaboration with OEUK’s Aviation Services Task Group, to underpin safety and competence in refuelling operations. The new standard supports North Sea regulations aimed at enhancing safety and consistency in offshore helicopter refuelling operations.
OEG’s HRT course has been developed for personnel who are directly involved in helicopter refuelling procedures in the offshore environment and is being delivered from the company’s new state-of-the-art helifuel training academy at its Portlethen facility in Aberdeen-shire.
Developed in-house, OEG’s programme equips Helicopter Landing Officers (HLOs) and Helideck Assistants (HDAs) with the knowledge and skills to carry out daily and weekly fuelling system maintenance activities, confidently and effectively. Practical onsite training facilities, including a bespoke fuelling system designed and built by OEG that uses JET A-1 fuel, provide realistic experience of aviation fuel handling and sample analysis techniques, as well as quality control and safe storage, ensuring compliance with the UK Civil Aviation Authority's CAP 437 standard for Offshore Helicopter Landing Areas.
Graham Short OEG training operations manager
Graham Short, Training Operations Manager for OEG, said: “We are excited to offer training that connects the importance of fuel quality control and fuelling system maintenance as an essential component to ensuring safe offshore helideck and flight operations. Aligning with OPITO’s global standards reflects our commitment to equipping the industry with the skills needed to meet the challenges of today’s energy sector.”
Clive Hoskisson, Regional Manager for OEG’s logistics division in the UK, added: “This is a significant achievement for OEG that has taken a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication. Quality standards are gained over years of successful delivery and OPITO accreditation of OEG’s helicopter refuelling training programme underlines the competence and professionalism that our aviation services team deliver every day. We’re very proud of this accomplishment and look forward to extending this value adding service to customers.”
This industry-recognised accreditation sets a new benchmark for helicopter refuelling training and reinforces OEG’s position as a leader in advancing offshore safety standards. By adhering to the rigorous OPITO standards, OEG aims to ensure that personnel are thoroughly trained and prepared to meet the evolving demands of the energy sector, contributing to safer and more efficient offshore operations.