by Emma Mills | Technical Officer | G+
Vessels are fundamental to the offshore wind industry, supporting every stage of a project’s lifecycle, from site surveys and construction to operations and maintenance and decommissioning. Their importance is reflected in the G+ incident database, which, at the time of writing, contains 4839 vessel related reports and account for around a third of all incidents and injuries recorded. While vessel incidents occur throughout a project’s lifecycle, they are recorded almost twice as frequently in construction sites compared with operational sites.
These figures highlight the importance of understanding the factors that contribute to vessel incidents and sharing lessons learned across the industry. Addressing these risks requires collaboration across the offshore wind and maritime sectors. G+ works closely with organisations including IMCA and the Workboat Association, whose members operate many of the vessels supporting offshore wind activities. Through these relationships, incident data, operational experience and lessons learned can be shared across industries and translated into guidance that helps improve safety. The following incident demonstrates the types of risks that G+ guidance and industry collaboration aim to address.
Toolbox incident: Crew transfer vessel collision with guard vessel | Toolbox
The incident involved a crew transfer vessel (CTV) and a guard vessel (GV) approaching each other in close proximity, resulting in a serious near miss with a closest point of approach of less than 90 metres. Despite receiving a warning and a recommended course change from the guard vessel, the CTV maintained its speed and direction. The event highlights the importance of complying with COLREG requirements, maintaining effective communication between vessels, and ensuring navigation systems are functioning correctly.
Read the full Toolbox article to explore the findings and lessons learned that can help prevent similar incidents.
What could you do in your company to increase safety in vessel operations?
The G+ guidance and Toolbox resources are designed to help organisations strengthen safety and apply industry learning in day-to-day operations. Consider how the following resources could support your own company’s vessel operations.
Use vessel related Toolbox incidents in safety discussion
These can be used during pre-sail briefs, safety briefs and toolbox talks to encourage discussion around real-world events and actions needed to prevent recurrence. Find more on the Toolbox website, where you can filter relevant incidents by activity. You can even subscribe to Toolbox alerts, to receive the latest incidents straight to your inbox!
Self-assess your company's implementation of EI 3261
EI 3261: The safe management of small service vessels used in the offshore wind industry
October 2023
The guideline sets out good practice for small service vessels operating in offshore wind farms and is designed to be reflected in management systems. Review how effectively the guidance is embedded in your own procedures.
Run the G+ CTV seatbelt campaign in your organisation
The campaign materials, including the video and posters, were developed from key CTV health and safety recommendations in EI 3261. They can be used across the offshore wind and maritime industries to promote safe CTV operations, by highlighting the importance of wearing seatbelts throughout vessel transits.
Assess your controls for vessel operations near installed WTGs
EI 3617: Managing the risk of moving, installed WTG blades striking a vessel
May 2026
This good practice guideline (GPG) provides practical recommendations for managing the risks associated with installed wind turbine generator (WTG) blades, which are in motion, striking a vessel. It supports vessel operators, developers and contractors in identifying hazards, assessing risks and implementing appropriate control measures during planning and operational activities.
Review your marine coordination arrangements against industry good practice
EI 3595: Marine Coordination
June 2025
Effective marine coordination plays a key role in managing vessel movement and reducing operational risk offshore. This GPG supports organisations in establishing robust marine coordination systems and shares good practice drawn from industry experience across multiple jurisdictions.
Use EI 3642 to help new starters understand the basics of vessel management
EI 3642: Vessel management in offshore wind for new entrants and non-marine professionals
June 2026
This publication provides an accessible introduction to vessel operations in offshore wind. It is intended to help new starters and non-marine professionals understand how vessels support offshore wind projects and the key considerations for managing vessel activities safely and effectively.
Together, these publications demonstrate how G+, working alongside organisations such as IMCA and the Workboat Association, is helping to turn incident data and operational experience into practical guidance that supports safer vessel operations across the offshore wind industry.