The Role of GWO Basic Safety Training in the Wind Industry

The Global Wind Organisation (GWO) sets internationally recognised training standards for the wind industry. Its Basic Safety Training (BST) modules form the foundation of safety competence for all wind energy workers. In this blog the Safer at Work team explain what the training covers, why it is essential for both onshore and offshore roles and how it underpins compliance, safety culture and worker confidence.

GWO Basic Safety Training

The wind industry is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy sectors in the world. With this rapid growth comes an equally urgent need for highly skilled, safety-aware workers.

To meet this challenge, the Global Wind Organisation created a unified training framework: GWO Basic Safety Training (BST). It is now the recognised industry benchmark for anyone working in or around wind turbines. In 2024 alone, 114,038 wind industry professionals completed at least basic safety course, with nearly a tenth of those (14,211) coming from the UK.

But what does BST involve and why is it so vital?

What is GWO Basic Safety Training?

GWO BST is a standardised programme designed to give workers the essential safety knowledge and practical skills needed to work safely in the wind industry.

The core modules include:

1. First Aid – emergency medical response in remote locations

2. Manual Handling – safe lifting and handling of loads to prevent injury.

3. Fire Awareness – prevention, suppression and evacuation in turbine fire scenarios.

4. Working at Height – use of harnesses, ladders and rescue techniques.

5. Sea Survival (for offshore workers) – survival at sea, transfer safety and emergency evacuation.

Why BST is Essential for Wind Energy Safety

1. Standardisation Across the Industry

• Employers know that a GWO certificate guarantees a baseline level of competence.

• Workers can move between projects and countries with recognised credentials.

2. Legal and Compliance Requirements

• Many operators make GWO certification mandatory.

• Aligns with UK safety legislation, including Work at Height and Manual Handling regulations.

3. Reducing Workplace Incidents

• Training reduces human error, one of the leading causes of workplace accidents.

• Workers develop the confidence to act correctly under pressure.

4. Building a Safety Culture

• Beyond technical skills, GWO BST reinforces teamwork, communication and a proactive approach to safety.

How BST Supports Employers

For employers, investing in BST means:

• Reduced downtime from accidents.

• Lower insurance and liability risks.

• Enhanced reputation as a responsible operator.

• Ability to attract and retain skilled workers who prioritise safety.

Challenges and Best Practices

Challenges:

• Ensuring workers refresh training every 2 years.

• Balancing training time with operational demands.

• Keeping content relevant as turbine technology evolves.

Best Practices:

• Integrate BST into onboarding for all new hires.

• Schedule refresher courses proactively to avoid certification gaps.

• Combine BST with site-specific induction training.

“Since the introduction of the GWO Basic Safety Training framework, we’ve seen a real shift in safety culture across the wind industry. Workers are more aware of potential hazards, quicker to act when they spot risks and far more confident in following procedures. The result has been a noticeable reduction in incidents and a stronger sense of accountability on every site.” Robbie, Renewable Field Services

An Essential – Not A ‘Nice To Have’

GWO Basic Safety Training is more than a tick-box exercise. It sets the standard for safe working practices, protects lives and ensures compliance across the wind industry.

For both employers and workers, BST is the essential first step in building a resilient safety culture.

Ready to get certified? Safer at Work delivers accredited GWO Basic Safety Training to equip your workforce with the skills they need. Contact us today to book your training programme: 0191 725 9950 and heather@saferatwork.com.

Common FAQs

Q: What does GWO Basic Safety Training cover?

It includes first aid, manual handling, fire awareness, working at height and (for offshore) sea survival.

Q: Is GWO BST mandatory in the UK?

While not a legal requirement, most wind farm operators make it mandatory for site access.

Q: How long is GWO Basic Safety Training valid?

Certification is valid for 2 years, after which refresher training is required.

Q: Can I work offshore without BST?

No. Offshore employers require proof of valid BST, including the Sea Survival module.