Offshore Helideck Assistant (HDA)

Purpose: Offshore Helideck Assistant (HDA) Course The Offshore Helideck Assistant (HDA) Course is designed to equip participants with the essential knowledge and skills required to perform the role of an HDA effectively. This training focuses on supporting helideck operations, ensuring safety protocols, and assisting in emergency response procedures in offshore environments. Key benefits include: • Comprehensive understanding of helideck operations and safety standards • Enhanced emergency response capabilities for helicopter-related incidents • Improved communication and coordination with helicopter crews Essential Information • Prerequisites: Check FAQ • Who is it for?: This course is intended for personnel appointed to the role of Offshore Helideck Assistant (HDA). • Assessment: Participants will undergo both theoretical and practical assessments to evaluate their competence in helideck operations, emergency response, and communication procedures. • Certification: Upon successful completion, participants receive an OPITO-approved Offshore Helideck Assistant (HDA)certificate. The HDA certification has 2 year validity.

Course Content • Helideck operations and safety protocols: Understanding the duties of the HDA, including proper communication with helicopters and identifying hazards on deck. • Helideck inspections and checks: Conducting thorough helideck checks to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. • Passenger control and management: Implementing effective procedures for passenger handling during landing and takeoff operations. • Cargo handling and dangerous goods regulations: Managing the safe loading and unloading of cargo and understanding regulations related to dangerous goods. • Emergency response procedures: Developing skills to respond to helideck emergencies, including aircraft crash, fire, and rescue scenarios. • Communication protocols: Utilising appropriate communication equipment and protocols during helideck operations and emergencies. Why choose Maersk Training for the Offshore Helideck Assistant (HDA) Course? • Industry-leading expertise: Maersk Training offers comprehensive courses that meet industry standards and regulatory requirements. • Interactive learning experience: Engage in practical sessions and real-life scenarios to reinforce understanding. • Recognised certification: Earn a certificate that demonstrates your commitment to workplace safety and compliance. Training in action: real-life Offshore Helideck Assistant (HDA) scenarios • Scenario 1: Assisting in a safe helicopter landing by conducting pre-landing checks, communicating with the flight crew, and ensuring the helideck is clear of hazards. • Scenario 2: Responding effectively to a helideck fire by initiating emergency protocols, coordinating with the emergency response team, and utilising firefighting equipment. • Scenario 3: Handling passenger embarkation and disembarkation efficiently, ensuring safety procedures are followed, and maintaining clear communication with the helicopter crew. FAQ • How long does the Offshore Helideck Assistant (HDA) Course take? The course spans approximately 1.5 days, combining theoretical instruction with practical applications. • What meals and refreshments are provided? Full-day courses include breakfast and lunch, with water, tea, coffee, and refreshments available throughout. • What should I bring to the course? All necessary materials and equipment are provided; participants should wear comfortable, work-appropriate attire.

• What are the prerequisites? On most offshore facilities, Helicopter Deck Assistants (HDAs) are required to hold two essential OPITO-approved certifications: Helideck Initial Operations Training (HOIT) and Helideck Emergency Response Team Member (HERTM).

The HOIT certificate is issued once, with no expiry, ensuring ongoing compliance without the need for renewal. In contrast, the HERTM certification requires a refresher every two years to maintain competency.

Before enrolling in the HOIT course, students must complete Dangerous Goods Awareness training and hold either a valid offshore medical certificate or an operator-approved medical certificate. For the HERTM course, a current HOIT certification and a valid offshore or operator-approved medical certificate are necessary to ensure readiness and safety standards.