GWO WAH + FAW

The GWO Working at Heights (WAH) + Fire Awareness (FAW) is a practical combination training course in which participants learn how to work safely at height and how to act appropriately in the event of fire hazards and fire-related incidents. The training covers, among other things, the use of personal protective equipment, fall protection and rescue equipment, fire prevention, evacuation procedures and the safe use of basic firefighting equipment. Theory is combined with realistic practical exercises.

Course duration: 2,5 days
Locations: Groningen, Vlissingen
Cost per student: From € 920,00 (excl. BTW)

Questions or need help? Send an email or call 0031 118 463382

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About this course

GWO WAH + FAW

Introduction
During this combined training, participants learn how to work safely and responsibly at height in and around wind turbines and how to respond to fire hazards and fire-related incidents.

The course consists of theory and realistic practical exercises. The Working at Heights module focuses on the use of harnesses, safety lines, work positioning systems, fall protection systems and rescue equipment. During the Fire Awareness module, participants practise identifying and preventing fire hazards, carrying out emergency and evacuation procedures and safely using basic firefighting equipment.

The emphasis is on risk awareness, safe behaviour, teamwork and effective action in emergency situations.

Objective
The objective of the GWO WAH + FAW training is to provide participants with the knowledge and skills required to work safely at height and to act safely in fire and emergency situations. Upon completion, participants are able to act safely during work at height and in the event of fire or other emergency situations.

Target Group
This combination training is intended for personnel who work or will be working in the wind energy industry or related sectors and who are required to complete both the GWO Working at Heights and GWO Fire Awareness training courses.

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Practical info

Entry Requirements
Participants must:

  • be physically capable of taking part in all practical exercises;

  • have a maximum body weight of 125 kg due to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE);

  • have a WINDA ID, which is mandatory for GWO registration.

Course Content

GWO Working at Heights (WAH)
The Working at Heights module provides participants with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to work safely at height within the wind energy industry.

During the training, participants learn to:

  • understand relevant legislation and safety procedures;

  • use and inspect harnesses designed for the wind industry;

  • use vertical fall protection and work positioning systems;

  • correctly use backup systems and safety lines;

  • identify and assess workplace risks and hazards;

  • follow emergency and evacuation procedures;

  • perform basic rescue operations using approved rescue equipment.

The module combines theoretical knowledge with practical exercises and focuses on safe behaviour, risk awareness and teamwork.

GWO Fire Awareness (FAW)
The Fire Awareness module focuses on preventing and managing fire-related incidents in and around wind turbines.

During the training, participants learn to:

  • identify and prevent fire hazards;

  • safely use portable firefighting equipment;

  • follow emergency and evacuation procedures;

  • assist colleagues during emergency situations;

  • correctly use personal protective equipment and apply emergency procedures.

WINDA Registration
Before the GWO combination training begins, all participants must register as a participant in WINDA. Registration is mandatory for everyone who wants to work in the wind energy industry.

After registration, participants receive a personal WINDA ID, which must be provided when booking the course. After successful completion, DRTC will link the obtained GWO training records to the participant’s personal WINDA account.

Registration: https://winda.globalwindsafety.org/

Validity
The GWO Working at Heights and Fire Awareness training records are valid for two years.

To maintain their validity, the relevant GWO refresher training must be completed before the current training records expire.

Practical information
Course duration: 2.5 days
Training hours:
Monday and tuesday 08:30 – 17:00
Thursday 13:00 - 17:00
Accreditation: The course modules are recognised by the Global Wind Organisation (GWO) – www.globalwindsafety.org

The rates shown on the website apply to the current calendar year and are adjusted annually.

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Day 1 - Working safely at height - Monday

The first day focuses on safe work and rescue at height. Participants learn to recognise fall hazards, inspect PPE and correctly use fall arrest systems. Through realistic exercises, they practise accessing ladders and platforms, connecting safely and performing rescues. Teamwork, clear communication and personal responsibility are emphasised throughout the day.

Day 2 - Practical application and rescue operations - Tuesday

The second day integrates all skills in realistic rescue and emergency scenarios. Participants perform rescues, administer first aid and work together in complex situations that test leadership and coordination. The course concludes with evaluation and individual feedback to reinforce professional safety behaviour.

Day 1 - Fire Prevention and Firefighting - Thursday afternoon

In this concise course, participants learn to identify fire hazards and extinguish fires safely and effectively. The session covers the fundamentals of fire behavior, fire classes, and extinguishing methods, as well as the correct use of fire blankets and CO₂ extinguishers. Practical exercises focus on extinguishing fires safely, applying emergency procedures, and evacuating in smoke conditions. The training concludes with an evaluation and WINDA registration.

What's on the program?

  • Day 1 - Working safely at height - Monday
  • Day 2 - Practical application and rescue operations - Tuesday
  • Day 1 - Fire Prevention and Firefighting - Thursday afternoon

High-quality facilities that make a difference

With the best resources and facilities at our disposal, we are able to offer training and courses of the highest quality.

Small Fire Extinguisher Training Area

Practical training with portable fire extinguishers

Small Fire Extinguisher Training Area

Realistic training with portable fire extinguishers for small fire scenarios.

Classrooms

Theory and practice under one roof

Classrooms

The perfect environment for theory sessions, preparation, and evaluation of practical training.

Canteen

Enjoy a good meal and relax during your training days

Canteen

Provided by SEC Catering – your break moment with quality food and excellent service during training days.

Working at Height Tower

Safe working at height training in accordance with GWO standards

Working at Height Tower

Training in safe working, rescue, and evacuation at height in accordance with GWO standards.

Practical training with portable fire extinguishers

Small Fire Extinguisher Training Area

Participants learn how to safely and effectively extinguish fires using handheld and portable fire extinguishers. Training takes place in realistic outdoor fire scenarios, allowing trainees to experience firsthand how different extinguishers work and what their limitations are.

What makes this facility unique is the hands-on approach to a variety of fire situations — from small liquid and gas fires to solid materials. Participants not only practice firefighting techniques but also learn to assess safety, distance, and the appropriate extinguishing strategy.

Who is it for

The Small Fire Extinguisher Training Area is used by maritime personnel, offshore teams, industrial emergency responders, and emergency response officers (BHV) who need to know how to control small fires quickly and effectively.

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What you’ll practice

Under the guidance of experienced instructors, participants will learn to:

  • Identify different types of fires and select the appropriate extinguishing agent

  • Use portable extinguishers (powder, foam, CO₂) effectively

  • Extinguish small liquid and gas fires

  • Approach safely and aim extinguishers accurately

  • Understand the limitations and capabilities of portable fire extinguishers

  • Ensure personal safety and assess risks during firefighting

All exercises are

Theory and practice under one roof

Classrooms

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.

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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.

Enjoy a good meal and relax during your training days

Canteen

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.

Who is it for

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.

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What you’ll experience

  • 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

For your organization

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.

Safe working at height training in accordance with GWO standards

Working at Height Tower

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.

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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 instructors

The people behind the training.

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.

Maarten Janse
Senior Maritime Instructor
Emile van Dooren
Instructor
Jorian Schut
Maritime Instructor
Marcel Bertijn
Firefighting Instructor
Michel de Pooter
Senior Maritime Instructor
Bas Gloudemans
Managing Director
Ruud Kathagen
Maritime Instructor

Frequently asked questions

DRTC provides a wide range of accredited safety courses for the maritime, offshore, wind and industrial sectors.

  • STCW – including Basic Training, Advanced Fire Fighting, Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSCRB/FRB), Medical First Aid, Medical Care and Security Awareness.
  • GWO – Basic Safety Training (BST) and individual modules such as Working at Height, First Aid, Fire Awareness, Manual Handling, Sea Survival and Enhanced First Aid.
  • NOGEPA – Basic Offshore Safety, Helicopter Underwater Escape (HUET), Sea Survival, Fire-fighting and specialised refresher courses.
  • BHV/First Aid/VCA – Basic and refresher courses in Emergency Response, First Aid and Safety Certification for all sectors.

See the current course overview on our website or contact drtc@drtc.nl for advice on the right training for your needs.

For (future) wind technicians, HSE staff, and support personnel working onshore or offshore in the wind energy industry.

We offer the full Basic Safety Training (BST) and individual modules such as Working at Height, First Aid, Fire Awareness, Manual Handling, and Sea Survival. Refresher courses and Enhanced First Aid are also available.

GWO certificates are valid for 24 months. Be sure to complete your refresher course before expiry.

Basic fitness is required. Depending on your employer’s policy, a maritime or offshore medical examination may be mandatory.

Bring valid identification, any required medical certificate, sports or swimwear, and a towel for pool sessions. All PPE and safety equipment are provided by DRTC.

Courses are conducted in Dutch or English. We can provide support for participants with dyslexia or reading difficulties; please inform us in advance.

At our own training locations or, where permitted, in-company.

You will receive your certificate immediately at the end of the training. We will upload your certification details to the WINDA database.

Depending on the module, you may need to retake the basic or an additional module. Contact us for the correct procedure. Call us at +31 118 463 382 or send an email to drtc@drtc.nl

For some courses, you can choose VAT exemption. This means the training will be invoiced without 21% VAT. The exemption applies only to recognised vocational training programmes that fall under official supervision by organisations such as ILT, OPITO, GWO, or NOGEPA.

Choose VAT exemption if you are taking the course for professional purposes or as a private individual without VAT deduction rights.
Choose including VAT if you are booking on behalf of a company that can reclaim VAT from the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration.

Your invoice will then state:
“Exempt from VAT under Article 11, paragraph 1, section o of the Dutch VAT Act 1968.”

Yes, we offer refresher modules for many of our courses. The validity of certificates depends on the standard and course.

Not required, but possible. Call us for advice or available options at +31 118 463 382 or email drtc@drtc.nl.

BHV (company emergency response) is not legally mandatory on Curaçao, Aruba and Sint Maarten as it is in the Netherlands. However, employers are required to ensure a safe working environment, including first aid, fire safety and emergency procedures. On Bonaire (Caribbean Netherlands), the Arbowet BES applies, which includes similar safety obligations. In practice, BHV or equivalent safety training is strongly recommended and often required by employers, clients or insurers.

DRTC (De Ruyter Training & Consultancy) provides practical BHV and safety training in the Caribbean, focused on realistic scenarios such as fire response, accidents and evacuation. With DRTC training, organizations on Curaçao, Bonaire, Sint Maarten and Aruba ensure well-prepared personnel and meet applicable safety expectations.

Based on Artikel 5 Annuleringen

  1. DRTC applies cancellation terms when cancelling training courses. A distinction is made between “open courses” and “customized courses.” A quotation is always provided for customized courses.

  2. Customized courses can be cancelled free of charge up to 14 working days before the start of the course.

  3. For cancellations of customized courses made 14 working days or fewer before the start of the course, 100% of the course fee will be charged.

  4. Open courses can be cancelled free of charge up to 5 working days before the start of the course.

  5. For cancellations of open courses made 5 working days or fewer before the start of the course, 100% of the course fee will be charged.

  6. Open courses can be rescheduled free of charge up to 2 working days before the start of the course.

  7. If a participant fails to attend at the start of the course, 100% of the course fee will be charged.

In mutual agreement, additional options may be considered beyond those stated in these terms.

Contact us at +31 118 463 382 or email drtc@drtc.nl.