The G+ Global Offshore Wind Health and Safety Organisation held its 10th annual Stakeholder Forum in Paris, on Thursday 7 March. The successful event brought members of the offshore wind sector together to collaborate, discussing the critical role of health and safety within a growing, global industry.
Starting with an inspiring welcome from the G+ Chair, David Griffiths (Head of Safety, Health and Wellbeing, SSE Renewables), the day began by celebrating the G+’s growth across Europe, Americas and Asia Pacific. This was followed by a preview of the latest Incident Report data, for 2023, ahead of its publication in June .
Lisbeth Norup Frømling (G+ Vice Chair, Ørsted) and Giles Mackey (G+ Director, bp) each hosted a panel session, discussing regulation and the work of the Industry Collaboration Committee. The first panel involved the regulators and highlighted the value of G+ data and the need for transparency regarding incident reporting, with Lisbeth encouraging attendees to “celebrate successes” in the industry. The second session focussed on training and recruitment - interlinked topics which can vary significantly around the globe.
Before breaking for lunch, the innovation challenge was launched. The idea of the competition is to connect further with frontline workers. It involves the contributions of technicians, addressing the prominent health and safety challenges they experience on the frontline. The first challenge is looking at bolt installation in wind turbine generator construction. The competition will look to innovators to submit ideas for novel ways of completing the installation that makes it safer for the workforce. Siemens Gamesa are leading the competition with the G+ and Innovate UK.
For the afternoon, attendees were able to take part in 2 out of the 8 breakout sessions that were themed around the G+ workstreams. This included G+ data, physical capacity, safe by design (including materials handling equipment), welfare, vessel safety, steel fabrication, walk-to-work and personnel transfer, and electrical safety. To conclude the sessions, a final panel reflected on the key takeaways from each breakout group, including contributions from the audience.
Wrapping up proceedings, David Griffiths (G+ Chair, SSE) provided a closing speech, thanking all for the positive energy and enthusiasm throughout the day. His closing remarks featured 3 key terms for all in attendance to takeaway: “collaboration, engagement and community” – emphasising this as the “backbone of G+” and crucial in the collective goal to get everyone home safe.
An event summary video, report and slides will be published this month containing further details.