AIS Survivex invests $1m in innovative lifeboat simulator tech
Training provider AIS Survivex has invested close to US$1m into the latest lifeboat simulator technology to increase marine safety and boost competency for coxswains.
AIS Survivex says it’s now the first training business globally to offer OPITO-approved lifeboat training for coxswains both practically in Aberdeen Harbour, and virtually via a simulator for free fall and twin fall escape scenarios.
The technology includes three of the latest lifeboat simulators — one free-fall, one twin-fall and an advanced coxswain mobile training simulator – which the company says provide ultra-realistic training experiences of lifeboat evacuation from an offshore oil and gas asset, various emergency scenarios and rescue at sea.
As well as being used for follow-on OPITO assessments and lifeboat coxswain further training, the simulators aim to help improve competency, enhance the learner experience and raise lifeboat safety standards.
The simulators can recreate every type of weather condition and can also switch between night time and daytime settings, enabling delegates to practise escape and emergency scenarios in adverse weather and in the dark – situations which couldn’t be reasonably practised otherwise. Training for all eventualities like this builds competency and improves safety standards.
“We are delighted to become the first centre in the world to offer both simulated and traditional lifeboat training for coxswains,” says AIS Survivex centre manager in Aberdeen, Jamie Purves.
“Traditional practical training using a real lifeboat in the sea is mandatory for the initial coxswain lifeboat certification but the simulators are perfect for refresher and enhanced assessments. Experiencing the lifeboat simulators is amazing and incredibly realistic. You truly think you’ve been at sea. They feel real. Another advantage of lifeboat simulation we can offer is to practice live launches in a safe environment.
“Our new lifeboat simulator technology is a major investment in our Aberdeen facility and underlines our continuing commitment to both the oil and gas and marine sectors to provide innovative training solutions, which build a competent and safe workforce.”
One of the simulators is a desktop version, which can be taken to any worksite easily and quickly, enabling personnel to practice live launches within a familiar environment and reducing the need to travel to and from a training centre.
“As the UK’s leading energy sector training business, it’s essential that we continue to break barriers by offering our customers the latest technology available to keep their workforce safe,” adds Purves. “This investment achieves that and allows us to offer a broader range of options and capacity for coxswain training, as we remain reactive to the changing regulatory environment that continues to embrace different ways to keep offshore workers safe.“
