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SGS Teams Up with IHO for Helideck Safety Improvement

In a significant move towards improving safety standards in offshore operations, SGS, a leader in testing, inspection, and certification, has announced its collaboration with the International Helideck Organization (IHO). This strategic partnership aims to enhance global helideck safety standards, reinforcing their commitment to ensure safe and compliant operations in the energy and aviation sectors.

Importance of Helideck Safety

Helidecks serve as critical access points for offshore platforms, primarily in the oil and gas industry, as well as in the emerging wind energy sector. Helicopters are often the primary mode of transport for shipping personnel and cargo between vessels and shore. Therefore, maintaining the safety of these helidecks is of paramount importance. The collaborative efforts of SGS and IHO are set to create standards that will minimize risks and enhance safety, not just for the workforce but also for the equipment and aircraft involved in these operations.

Collaborative Initiatives

SGS's expertise in cost-effective inspections and friction testing combined with IHO's extensive knowledge in helideck inspection, certification, and training creates a formidable alliance. This partnership will focus on comprehensive audit services aimed at bolstering helideck operations worldwide. Mike McCready, VP of Operations at SGS, emphasized the necessity of these efforts, stating that safe offshore operations are essential for protecting personnel and assets.

In the collaboration, adherence to aviation industry regulations, such as CAP 437 and HSAC 163, will be meticulously examined. These regulations cover various aspects, including landing and takeoff procedures, helideck design and maintenance, friction testing, and essential meteorological evaluations. Each area plays a vital role in ensuring that offshore platforms operate under stringent safety guidelines.

Setting New Standards

The partnership seeks to establish new benchmarks in safety and compliance. Morne Wiid, IHO Managing Director, highlighted that by leveraging SGS's global auditing capabilities and IHO's expertise in technical training, they aim to elevate safety outcomes and ensure full regulatory compliance across the industry.

This collaboration is also pivotal for SGS’s Strategy 27, a vision that aligns with the evolving megatrends within the Testing, Inspection, and Certification (TIC) industry. Rising regulatory measures and a focus on safety are prevalent trends, particularly in offshore aviation where stringent safety protocols are becoming increasingly necessary.

Furthermore, as the energy landscape shifts towards more sustainable practices, this partnership supports the transition towards servicing offshore wind energy platforms. The engagement reflects a broader commitment to sustainability and safety integration into operational practices.

About SGS

SGS leads the global TIC sector, operating more than 2,500 laboratories and facilities in 115 countries, with a workforce of over 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of commitment to service excellence, SGS combines Swiss precision with a reputation for integrity, enabling businesses to meet the highest quality and compliance standards.

As they move forward with this collaboration, SGS and IHO are well-placed to redefine industry standards, pushing the envelope in terms of what can be achieved in offshore safety.

By working together, these two organizations are not only enhancing safety within the industry but also solidifying the operational integrity that is critical for successful and reliable offshore activities. As this collaboration unfolds, the industry will watch closely to see the new standards that emerge from this partnership.