If you are looking at a career in offshore wind, chances are you have already come across GWO basic safety training. It is one of the first requirements employers will ask about, and for good reason. Offshore wind work takes place in challenging environments, often at height, offshore, and far from immediate emergency support.

At Stream Marine Training, we work with career changers, apprentices, and new entrants every week who are taking their first steps into the renewables sector. Based near Glasgow Airport, we deliver GWO-approved training that is practical, realistic, and led by instructors with real offshore and emergency services experience. Our focus is simple. Prepare you properly for the realities of working on wind turbines, not just ticking a box.

This guide explains exactly what GWO basic safety training involves, why it matters, how long it takes, and what you can expect when you complete it at SMT.

What Is GWO Basic Safety Training?

GWO basic safety training is a Global Wind Organisation standard designed to create a consistent level of safety knowledge across the wind industry worldwide. The Global Wind Organisation, often shortened to GWO, was set up by major wind turbine manufacturers and operators to improve safety and reduce incidents across onshore and offshore wind farms.

The training focuses on the core hazards faced by wind turbine technicians and offshore personnel. Working at height. Manual handling in confined spaces. Fire risks inside turbines. Medical emergencies in remote locations. Offshore escape and survival.

GWO basic safety training, often referred to as GWO BST, covers five mandatory modules and takes five days to complete in full. Employers across the offshore wind sector expect this certification before you step on site.

At SMT, we are a GWO-approved training provider and deliver all GWO modules in line with current Global Wind Organisation standards. You can view our full range of courses on our GWO courses page.

The Five Modules of GWO Basic Safety Training

GWO basic safety training is made up of five individual modules. Each one focuses on a specific risk area that wind technicians are exposed to during day-to-day work.

We deliver all five modules at Stream Marine Training using a practical, scenario-based approach. Delegates are not sitting in a classroom all week. You are actively training, practising skills, and responding to realistic situations you will face offshore.

Sea Survival (1 Day)

Sea Survival is a core requirement for offshore wind work. This module prepares you for emergency situations at sea, including vessel evacuation and survival in cold water.

During Sea Survival at SMT, delegates carry out practical pool-based exercises. You will practise entering the water safely, swimming in personal protective equipment, forming group huddles, and using survival equipment. Scenarios are built around real offshore incidents our instructors have encountered during their careers.

This module is essential because offshore wind farms are often many miles from shore. In an emergency, your ability to survive and manage yourself until rescue arrives matters.

Working at Height and Manual Handling (2.5 Days Combined)

Working at height is one of the most critical elements of wind turbine safety. Turbines can exceed 100 metres, and technicians regularly work inside towers and nacelles, the enclosed space at the top of the turbine housing key equipment.

At SMT, Working at Height and Manual Handling are commonly delivered together. This reflects how these skills are used together in the real world.

You will practise safe climbing techniques, correct use of harnesses, fall arrest systems, ladder safety, and rescue procedures. Manual handling focuses on lifting, carrying, and positioning equipment safely within confined turbine spaces. Our instructors place strong emphasis on body positioning, risk awareness, and teamwork.

These sessions are hands-on and physically active, closely mirroring offshore working conditions.

First Aid (1 Day)

GWO First Aid is specifically designed for the wind industry. It goes beyond basic first aid by focusing on remote environments where emergency services may not be immediately available.

Training covers casualty assessment, CPR, use of automated external defibrillators, bleeding control, shock management, and trauma scenarios relevant to turbine work. At SMT, we use realistic scenarios based on offshore and industrial incidents.

This module gives you the confidence to act decisively if a colleague is injured, which is a vital expectation in offshore wind roles.

Fire Awareness (0.5 Day)

Fire Awareness focuses on fire prevention and response within wind turbines and associated facilities. Fires offshore present unique challenges due to limited escape routes and delayed emergency response.

Delegates learn about common causes of turbine fires, fire behaviour, detection systems, and correct response actions. Practical exercises help reinforce decision-making under pressure.

This module completes the full GWO basic safety training package and ensures you understand how to reduce fire risk and respond safely.

Why GWO Training Is Essential for Offshore Wind Careers

GWO basic safety training is not optional for most offshore wind roles. Employers, contractors, and site operators require it to ensure a common safety standard across teams.

For career changers, this training demonstrates commitment and readiness for offshore work. It also helps reduce anxiety when starting in a demanding environment. You arrive on site already familiar with the core safety expectations and procedures.

At SMT, we regularly train delegates who are transitioning from oil and gas, construction, emergency services, or entirely different industries. The structure of GWO training helps level the playing field and sets a clear baseline for safe working.

How Long Is GWO Certification Valid?

This is a critical point and often misunderstood.

All GWO certificates are valid for 2 years only. They must be renewed before expiry.

To remain certified, you must complete the GWO Basic Safety Training Refresher, known as BSTR, every two years. If your certificate expires, you will generally be required to complete full retraining rather than a refresher.

This rule is set by the Global Wind Organisation and applies internationally. Employers will check certificate validity before allowing site access.

You can view and book the full GWO Basic Safety Training course directly on our GWO Basic Safety Training page.

What to Expect During GWO Training at Stream Marine Training

Training at SMT is practical, supportive, and focused on real-world application. Our instructors bring experience from offshore operations and emergency services, which shapes how we teach.

We deliver training at our facility near Glasgow Airport, making it easily accessible for delegates travelling from across Scotland and beyond. Sessions are structured, but approachable. Questions are encouraged, and scenarios are explained clearly.

We currently offer GWO courses at 50% off standard pricing, which has made this essential training more accessible for those changing careers or entering the offshore wind sector.*

Throughout your course, our team is on hand to guide you through each module and ensure you understand not just what to do, but why it matters offshore.

Getting Started with Your Offshore Wind Career

If you are ready to begin your offshore wind journey, GWO basic safety training is the right starting point. Completing all five modules gives you the foundation employers expect and helps you approach offshore work with confidence.

You can book directly online, or speak to our team if you have questions about course options or scheduling. For advice or bookings, contact us at bookings@streammarinetraining.com or call +44 (0)141 212 8777.

At Stream Marine Training, we are proud to support the next generation of offshore wind professionals with practical, experience-led training.

*Pricing true as of February, 2026. May be subject to change.

Frequently Asked Questions About GWO Basic Safety Training

How long does GWO Basic Safety Training take?

GWO Basic Safety Training takes 5 days in total and covers all five mandatory modules.

How long is my GWO certificate valid for?

All GWO certificates are valid for 2 years and must be renewed before expiry.

Do I need GWO training to work in offshore wind?

Most offshore wind employers require valid GWO certification before allowing site access, especially for technician roles.

What’s the difference between GWO and OPITO training?

GWO training is designed for the wind industry, while OPITO training is primarily for oil and gas. At Stream Marine Training, we deliver both.

Can I do GWO modules separately or do I need the full week?

At Stream Marine Training, you can book the full 5-day package or individual modules depending on your needs. Call our bookings team on 0141 212 8777 to discuss options.

What happens if my GWO certificate expires?

If your GWO certificate expires, you will generally need to complete full retraining rather than a refresher.

Is GWO Basic Safety Training physically demanding?

The training is active and hands-on, but it is designed to be achievable for those with reasonable fitness and mobility.