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About DRTC
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The NOGEPA 1.3B Helicopter Deck Assistant (HDA) Refresher is a practical refresher training designed for helicopter deck assistants working on offshore mining installations. The course focuses on maintaining and refreshing the operational and emergency response skills required to safely support helicopter operations.
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IntroductionUnder the supervision of the Helicopter Landing Officer (HLO), Helicopter Deck Assistants (HDAs) perform routine helicopter deck operations, including assisting passengers, handling baggage and cargo, and supporting emergency response procedures. This refresher course reinforces both theoretical and practical knowledge through realistic exercises focused on safety and operational efficiency.
ObjectiveThe objective of this course is to train participants in the theory and practice of conducting helicopter deck operations safely under normal and emergency conditions. Upon completion, participants will be able to assist effectively with passenger handling, cargo transfer, refueling procedures, and respond appropriately to emergencies.
Target GroupThis course is intended for personnel assigned as Helicopter Deck Assistants (HDAs) on offshore mining installations.
Entry RequirementsParticipants must hold:
A valid record in their Personal Safety Logbook of:
Basic or Refresher “Member Firefighting and Rescue Team” (2.6A/B) – if refueling activities occur.
Basic or Refresher “Helicopter Firefighting” (2.9A/B) – if no refueling activities occur.
A valid Offshore Medical Certificate.
Course ContentThe course covers both theoretical and practical components, including:
Hazards of helicopter operations and recognition of danger zones
Correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
Preparation of the helideck and firefighting systems
Landing, take-off, and emergency procedures
Passenger embarkation/disembarkation and cargo handling (including hazardous materials)
Determining helicopter weight and assisting with engine start procedures
Fuel handling: operating refueling systems and fuel quality control
Practical exercises applying all techniques from the learning objectives
Practical Training Conditions
Maximum of 6 participants per instructor to ensure close supervision and safe practice.
Course DurationRefresher Course: 1 day
CertificationUpon successful completion, participants receive the NOGEPA 1.3B HDA Refresher Certificate.
ValidityThe certificate is valid for 2 years.
Practical InformationDuration: 1 dayParticipants: minimum 6, maximum 12Class hours: 08:30 – 17:00Accreditation: approved by NOGEPA (Netherlands Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Association)
This one-day refresher course updates the essential skills required for safely performing helideck operations under the supervision of the Helicopter Landing Officer (HLO). The focus is on preparing the helideck, assisting passengers, handling baggage and cargo, and performing emergency procedures in case of incidents.Participants also review the correct use of firefighting equipment and practice fire and rescue actions in helicopter-related emergency situations.
With the best resources and facilities at our disposal, we are able to offer training and courses of the highest quality.
Our training locations are specifically designed to optimize your learning experience. With modern facilities, realistic training environments, and centrally located centers in Vlissingen and Groningen, we offer a professional and comfortable setting where practice and safety come together.
The perfect environment for theory sessions, preparation, and evaluation of practical training.
Provided by SEC Catering – your break moment with quality food and excellent service during training days.
Our classrooms form the foundation of all our training programs. Here, participants prepare with theoretical knowledge, interactive presentations, and clear instructions before moving on to the practical sessions. The rooms are modern, well-equipped, and provide a calm, professional learning environment.
What makes the classrooms unique is their direct connection to our training facilities. This allows theory to be applied immediately in practice, ensuring an optimal learning experience for every participant.
Who is it for
The classrooms are used by all participants in maritime, offshore, and industrial training programs. Whether for short briefings or multi-day courses, they serve as both the starting point and the place for reflection and debriefing.
What you’ll experience
Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll take part in:
Theoretical instruction and presentations
Preparation for practical exercises
Safety briefings and procedural training
Interactive discussions and group assignments
Evaluation and debriefing of practical training sessions
Testing and certification
The classrooms are equipped with modern audiovisual tools and can be configured flexibly for both small groups and larger sessions.
For your organization
Would you like to combine customized or in-company training with both theory and practice?Contact us — together we’ll design a program that aligns perfectly with your learning objectives.
The Canteen is your place to unwind — enjoy good food, a pleasant atmosphere, and the opportunity to share experiences. Catering is provided by SEC Catering, a regional company from Zeeland known for its fresh, flavorful dishes and flexible service.
Everyone participating in our training programs — from trainees and instructors to guests — is welcome in the Canteen to take a break, hold a meeting, or simply enjoy a meal.
Fresh, locally sourced dishes provided by SEC Catering
Options for lunch, snacks, and drinks
Comfortable seating areas to relax between training sessions
An informal meeting space to share experiences and connect with others
Would you like your training day to be fully catered, including food and drinks?Let us know your preferences — together with SEC Catering, we’ll arrange everything from the menu to the timing.
Our experienced trainers challenge you to bring out the best in yourself. Our program coordinators are available to provide you with all information and to answer any practical questions regarding the training.
Marcel is a true Vlissingen native, deeply connected to the fire service and to firefighting in both the industrial and maritime sectors. After completing his commercial studies, he devoted his career to sharing his knowledge and practical experience at the training center in Vlissingen, DRTC, and the Zeeland Safety Region. To achieve this, he obtained all relevant firefighting diplomas. Since 1999 (initially part-time and later full-time), he has been doing this work with great pleasure and passion. Together with his enthusiastic, skilled, and experienced colleagues, he provides courses in Basic Training/Advanced Fire Fighting as well as refresher courses in firefighting.
In addition, he regularly works on industrial sites to organize and supervise firefighting training sessions. When a client has a gap in their command officer schedule, Marcel steps in there as well. He also works on a project basis with clients to solve more complex issues.
In his free time, Marcel is active as a (core) instructor for the Zeeland Safety Region.
Bas Gloudemans has been active in maritime safety training for many years. What began as a hobby—diving during HUET training—has grown into a passion for the maritime industry. After starting his career as an instructor and completing training as a safety specialist, Bas held various management positions at different training providers.
In addition to his dedication to safety training, the development of training centers both in the Netherlands and abroad has played a central role throughout his career. With experience from the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, Bas ultimately settled in what may well be considered the cradle of maritime education and training in the Netherlands: beautiful Zeeland.
Alongside his directorial responsibilities, Bas is still occasionally active as an instructor. After all, old habits die hard…
Jorian Schut was born and raised in Bergen op Zoom, where he grew up surrounded by water. Through sea scouts and sailing he discovered his passion for the sea and adventure. After completing his Maritime Officer studies at HZ University of Applied Sciences in Vlissingen (2016–2020), he started his seafaring career in early 2021 as an officer on heavy lift vessels. For four years he sailed worldwide and gained extensive experience with ice navigation in the Arctic region.
In early 2024, Jorian decided to pursue a shore-based career. Having previously attended his own safety courses at DRTC, he returned with great memories of that time – this time as an Maritime instructor. Since then, he has been delivering nearly the full range of STCW training, simulation training and GWO programs at DRTC. In addition, he is actively involved in the development of new courses, ensuring the training offer remains relevant and of high quality.
His training style is hands-on, approachable and always focused on learning together. Jorian values the stories and experiences of participants, creating an environment where everyone learns from one another. For him, safety courses should never feel like a mandatory exercise, but rather like a meaningful and enjoyable experience.
With certifications such as Firefighting Crew Member (and currently training for Firefighting Commander) and practical experience in challenging maritime environments, Jorian has built a solid foundation. Looking ahead, his ambition is to further expand his role by delivering more courses, developing new programs and taking on greater leadership responsibilities within the organization.
Born and raised in Zeeland, Michel de Pooter carries the sea in his heart. From a young age, his parents took him along on their sailing boat, instilling in him a deep-rooted love for the water and maritime life.
After completing his Maritime Officer training, Michel began his career as a 4th Officer with the cruise ships of Holland America Line. In the following years, he rose through the ranks to Staff Captain, gaining a wealth of experience in leadership and ship operations on board cruise vessels worldwide.
In 2025, Michel chose a new course: a shore-based position that allowed him to spend more time with his family while sharing his extensive hands-on knowledge with others. As Senior Maritime Instructor at DRTC, he delivers a variety of maritime training programs and is also regularly involved in the preparation and development of courses at the office.
DRTC provides a wide range of accredited safety courses for the maritime, offshore, wind and industrial sectors.
See the current course overview on our website or contact drtc@drtc.nl for advice on the right training for your needs.
For offshore personnel working in the oil and gas industry, including those attending BOSIET, T-BOSIET, FOET, HUET, and CA-EBS courses.
Generally, OPITO certificates are valid for 4 years (FOET before expiry). NOGEPA: basic safety training 4 years, specialised training 2 years. Please check the course page for exact validity.
Yes, a valid OGUK or NOGEPA medical certificate is usually required.
Bring valid identification, your medical certificate, swimwear, and a towel for pool sessions. PPE and rescue equipment are provided by DRTC.
Courses are available in Dutch or English. Additional support is available upon request.
Yes, certain theoretical and practical components can be conducted on-site, provided that the facilities meet the required standards.
In some cases, a FOET/refresher is no longer allowed and you may need to repeat (part of) the initial training. Contact us for advice. Call us at +31 118 463 382 or send an email drtc@drtc.nl
You can cancel your booking by contacting us via email or phone. For open enrolment courses you may cancel free of charge up to 5 working days before the start. For customised training you may cancel free of charge up to 14 working days before the start. If you cancel within those deadlines the full course fee will be invoiced.
Visit our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ page for more information, or contact us at +31 118 463 382 or email drtc@drtc.nl.