New safe pass programme launched
A first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at enhancing safety standards and awareness for those working the offshore renewable energy sector was recently launched.
The Maritime and Offshore Safe Pass is designed to provide essential health and safety induction training for individuals entering or currently employed in the maritime industry, mirroring the success of the existing Safe Pass programme used in construction. It will include training in emergency preparedness, vessel safety, environmental awareness, and personal protective practices.
Those behind the programme said as Ireland begins to deliver significant offshore wind energy generation (5 gigawatts by 2030) the need for skilled, safety informed workers will increase exponentially, and this Maritime and Offshore Safe Pass is the first step to ensuring the safety of all involved in the sector.
Cork Education and Training Board (Cork ETB) in partnership with the National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI), a constituent college of Munster Technological University (MTU), launched the pilot programme.
SOLAS, the national Further Education and Training Authority, in its role as the authority for construction safety compliance, commissioned Cork ETB with NMCI to develop a pilot programme that reflected the unique requirements for people who will be working in the delivery of Ireland’s offshore wind energy ambitions.
The launch was officially inaugurated by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD at the NMCI in Ringaskiddy.
He said: “I am delighted to launch this new Maritime and Offshore Safe Pass Pilot Programme which has been co-developed by Cork ETB with NMCI. Offshore wind energy generation will be key to reducing emissions, along with ensuring energy and economic security in the future. This important programme will ensure workers are trained in the skills and safety requirements that are vital when it comes to working in the emerging offshore sector.”
The pilot programme is being rolled out with the support of the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and SOLAS and aligns with Ireland’s National Skills Strategy and Maritime Development Strategy. It aims to engage maritime professionals, trainees, and students in a structured, certified programme that enhances baseline safety competencies.
Cllr Gillian Coughlan, Chairperson of Cork ETB, added: “This pilot is about ensuring everyone who sets foot on a vessel or into a marine workspace has the knowledge and confidence to operate safely. We are proud to work with our higher education partners to deliver a programme that will ultimately save lives and foster a stronger safety culture across the industry.”
Andrew Brownlee, CEO of SOLAS, said: “This initiative reflects the collaborative power of education and government in action. We’re pleased to contribute our expertise in maritime training and research to this transformative programme.”
Prof. John O’Halloran, President of UCC, said: “The strong and deep partnership between the further and higher education partners will enable a comprehensive approach to building capacity for an exciting offshore renewable energy sector for the region and Ireland.”
Dr Seán McSweeney, Dean of Faculty of Engineering, MTU, said: “It is wonderful to have this programme coordinated out of the National Maritime College of Ireland as a national asset tasked with developing the talent pool to achieve Irelands maritime ambition.”
The recently signed memorandum of understanding between, Cork ETB, MTU/NMCI and UCC recognises the commitment by all partners to delivery in pursuit of our national objectives.