Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Fundamentals of Marine Personnel Transfer Operations

• Understand the importance of safe personnel transfer in maritime and offshore environments.
• Identify types of personnel transfer operations:
• Ship-to-ship (STS) transfers.
• Ship-to-shore and shore-to-ship transfers.
• Vessel-to-offshore platform transfers.
• Helicopter-based transfers.

2. Personnel Transfer Methods and Equipment

• Learn about transfer baskets (Billy Pugh, Frog, Safe Transfer System).
• Operate gangways, accommodation ladders, and pilot ladders.
• Understand motion-compensated gangways and walk-to-work (W2W) solutions.
• Use small craft transfers (Fast Rescue Boats, daughter craft, or launch boats).

3. Risk Assessment and Safety Precautions

• Conduct pre-transfer safety briefings and risk assessments.
• Identify environmental factors affecting transfer operations (weather, sea state, visibility).
• Implement permit-to-work (PTW) procedures for personnel movement.

4. Crane-Assisted and Basket Transfer Procedures

• Follow safe lifting practices for personnel transfer baskets.
• Understand communication protocols between vessel, crane operator, and personnel.
• Inspect and maintain lifting gear, harnesses, and PPE.

5. Gangway and Pilot Ladder Transfers

• Ensure compliance with SOLAS Chapter V and IMO pilot ladder safety requirements.
• Implement safe embarking and disembarking techniques.
• Conduct daily inspections of gangways, accommodation ladders, and railings.

6. Helicopter Personnel Transfer Operations

• Understand helicopter approach, landing, and takeoff safety zones.
• Follow offshore helideck safety procedures and emergency protocols.
• Ensure compliance with ICAO, CAP 437, and OPITO safety standards.

7. Emergency Response and Incident Management

• Develop contingency plans for failed transfers and man-overboard situations.
• Implement first-aid procedures for personnel injuries during transfer.
• Conduct rescue drills using fast rescue craft (FRC) and emergency evacuation systems.

8. Regulatory Compliance and Industry Standards

• Ensure compliance with SOLAS, IMO, ISM Code, and flag state requirements.
• Follow Oil & Gas UK (OGUK) and offshore personnel transfer guidelines.
• Maintain records and certifications for personnel transfer equipment and procedures.

9. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Analyze real-world personnel transfer incidents and lessons learned.
• Participate in hands-on transfer basket and gangway safety drills.
• Develop a standard operating procedure (SOP) for personnel transfer operations.

Target Audience

• Offshore workers and marine crew
• Ship captains, pilots, and deck officers
• Port operators and logistics personnel
• HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) officers
• Crane operators and rigging teams