What emergency situations can affect a wind turbine?

Fire and personal injury are the principal emergency situations that could affect a wind turbine and require emergency service response. These two overall categories encompass many variants that require specific response procedures.

How do emergency responders interact with wind turbine operators?

It is absolutely imperative that emergency responders interact with the wind turbine operators to create, implement, and maintain preemergency response planning. Responders should go to the site to familiarize themselves with the facilities and develop simulation emergency exercises with the operators.

Can a fire brigade help rescue from a wind turbine?

Also, “Duty holder’s arrangements for emergency and rescue should not rely on the fire brigade”. Since publication the ability of the emergency services to provide rescue from height has improved considerably. Many are now able to provide advice on evacuation and rescue, when planning rescue from height within wind turbines.

What should be considered when developing an Emergency Response Plan (ERP)?

When developing an Emergency Response Plan (ERP), consideration must be given to the remoteness of the site location, response times and the equipment and training provided, in order to promote self-sufficiency and preservation of life until the emergency services are in attendance.

Are SOPs/SOGS necessary for emergency operations at wind turbine sites?

Standard operating procedures/guidelines (SOPs/SOGs) for emergency operations at wind turbine sites are absolutely necessary. The turbine-supporting tower can be as much as 300 feet high with very slim access shafts (generally no elevators, just vertical ladders) and extremely confined interiors.

Can heightec® help with wind turbine rescue planning?

heightec® has undertaken a number of exercises with wind turbine clients, and in collaboration with the emergency services, to test the arrangements in place for the deployment of rescue equipment. All have led to recommendations for the improvement of rescue planning and, in some instances, the installation of new equipment.