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About DRTC
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The STCW training Working at Height is intended for seafarers and ship personnel who perform tasks at height on board ships or offshore installations. During this practical course, participants learn to work safely at height in accordance with STCW safety requirements, including the use of personal fall protection, the identification of risks, and the execution of basic rescues at height.
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IntroductionOn board ships and maritime installations, work at height may take place on masts, cranes, ladders, or structural components. The Working at Height course focuses on developing safe working behavior, correct use of fall protection equipment, and providing assistance in case of incidents at height. Participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in using harnesses, lifelines, and rescue equipment.
ObjectiveUpon completion of the training, the participant will be able to:
Work safely at height on board or on offshore installations
Correctly use and inspect personal protective equipment
Identify and manage risks and hazards associated with working at height
Apply emergency procedures and perform basic rescue operations
Target groupThis course is intended for anyone performing work at height in the maritime or offshore sector, in accordance with the safety requirements of the STCW Convention.
Entry requirementsMinimum age: 18 years
Participants must hold:
A valid medical certificate for seagoing service
Good physical condition to safely perform the practical exercises
A body weight not exceeding 120 kilograms due to the limitations of personal protective equipment
If a participant is using medication that may cause physical limitations, this must be reported in advance.
Course content
Introduction to working at height
Applicable STCW and safety regulations
Use and inspection of harnesses
Vertical and horizontal fall protection
Work positioning and backup systems
Workplace hazards and risk management
Emergency procedures and communication
Use of rescue equipment and basic rescue techniques
CertificationUpon successful completion, participants receive the DRTC certificate “Working at Height – STCW Safety Training.”
ValidityFive years.
Course durationThe basic training lasts two consecutive days.
Course hours08:30 – 17:00 hours.
The first day focuses on the fundamental principles of safe working at height. Participants learn about human factors and relevant legislation, the correct use of harnesses and personal protective equipment (PPE), and the implementation of fall prevention techniques. The course also covers lanyards and self-retracting lifelines (SRL), the risks of falling objects, and the recognition and prevention of suspension trauma. The day concludes with practical exercises in which emergency procedures and fall protection techniques are applied in realistic scenarios.
The second day is dedicated to rescue operations and emergency response. Participants become familiar with various types of rescue equipment and learn how to safely and effectively perform a rescue at height. Practical exercises include emergency descent and casualty retrieval scenarios, with a strong focus on teamwork, communication, and operational safety.
With the best resources and facilities at our disposal, we are able to offer training and courses of the highest quality.
Training in safe working, rescue, and evacuation at height in accordance with GWO standards.
The Working at Height Tower has been specifically designed for training participants in safe working, rescue, and evacuation techniques at height. The tower is widely used for GWO (Global Wind Organisation) courses, such as Working at Heights, and also provides training opportunities for offshore, maritime, and industrial scenarios.
What makes this tower unique is its versatility: participants can practice fall protection, climbing and descent techniques, as well as rescue and evacuation procedures. With multiple platforms and training stations, the tower is suitable for both basic and advanced levels.
Who is it for?
The Working at Height Tower is used by wind industry teams, offshore and maritime personnel, industrial technicians, and emergency responders who need to work safely at height or on elevated installations.
What You’ll Practice
Under the guidance of experienced instructors, participants will learn to:
Use personal fall protection equipment correctly (harness, lines, and anchor points)
Apply climbing techniques and work safely at height
Perform rescue and evacuation of colleagues in emergency situations
Operate lifting and descent systems
Follow emergency procedures in case of a fall incident
Work together and communicate effectively during height-related operations
All exercises are conducted under strict safety protocols and fully aligned with the international standards of the Global Wind Organisation (GWO).
For Your Organization
Would you like your team to train according to GWO standards or follow customized height safety scenarios?Contact us — we’ll develop a program tailored to your sector and safety objectives.
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.
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…
Maarten Janse was born and raised in Zeeland and has a deep connection with the sea. After completing his Bachelor of Maritime Officer degree at the Maritime Institute De Ruyter (2002–2006), he began his career as a 4th officer on the cruise ships of Holland America Line. In the years that followed, he progressed to 1st officer and gained worldwide experience in ship navigation and maneuvering, delivering safety training to crew in various emergency roles, organizing emergency drills, and leading teams responsible for the maintenance of lifesaving appliances and fire detection, prevention, and firefighting systems.
In 2022, Maarten made the transition to a shore-based position, wishing to spend more time with his family while sharing his extensive hands-on experience with others. As a Senior Maritime Instructor at DRTC, he delivers training such as AFF, PST, PSCRB, FRB, ECDIS, GWO, and MCRM, as well as modules within ship management. His trainings are realistic, practice-oriented, and always linked to real-world situations. Maarten holds the certificate of competency as Master Mariner (all ships) and Firefighting Crew Member, and is a certified CAE MCRM instructor, making him a specialist in maritime incident response and teamwork.
Maarten has a strong passion for sharing knowledge. As a black belt holder in Kyokushin karate, he enthusiastically taught both youth and adults for many years. That same energy, dedication and attention to the participant characterize his approach in every training he delivers.
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 seafarers and maritime professionals who must comply with international STCW requirements.
Yes, our STCW courses are recognised by the Dutch flag state (the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate – ILT). Each certificate includes the relevant STCW reference, ensuring international recognition.
We offer Basic Training (BT), Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF), Medical First Aid (MFA), Medical Care (MC), Proficiency in (Fast) Rescue Boats (PSCRB/FRB), and Security Awareness/Designated Duties.
Most STCW certificates must be renewed every 5 years (depending on the module and sea time requirements). Check the course page for exact details.
Yes, a valid maritime medical certificate is mandatory for participation.
Bring valid identification, a medical certificate (mandatory), and swimwear/towel if the course includes a pool module. PPE and rescue equipment are provided by DRTC.
Courses are available in Dutch or English. Additional support for reading difficulties can be arranged on request.
You will receive a digital and/or physical certificate in compliance with STCW standards. The format may vary by course.
Not required, but possible. Call us for advice or available options at +31 118 463 382 or email drtc@drtc.nl.
Yes, we can. You can request this when booking or contact us by email or phone. We will arrange a suitable hotel and package for your stay.
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.