The AODC has embarked in principle on an initiative to set up a standard for the training and certification of ROV operations personnel Ultimately the intention is to introduce a formal industry recognised qualification, which may be for instance known as the Diploma in ROV Technology (Operations)
The first stage is to define a framework for training and certification and to set up entry to the industry criteria and minimum qualification standards for Pilot/Technicians
This paper outlines the background to and reasons for, this initiative and describes Phase 1 activities
ADC is the International Association of Underwater Engineering Contractors (Formerly known as the Association of Offshore Diving Contractors) The Association represents Diving, Subsea Engineering. ROV and Submersible Contractors. Manufacturers and Service Companies active in the field of underwater engineering worldwide
Since its formation in 1972 one of the AODC's prime functions has been to act as a self regulatory body setting safety and operational standards to which its members operate. This has proved to be a practical and efficient approach within the area of diving and manned submersible operations and is now being expanded to cover ROV operations Many of the AODC Guidelines and Codes of Practice have been incorporated into subsequent legislation (Appendix 1 Shows a list of AODC publications)
The AODC has also been responsible for setting up and operating the Offshore Diving Supervisors and LST Schemes These provide for the training, examination and certification of life support technicians and diving supervisors who are appointed in writing to control diving operations
The AODC ROV and Submersible Committee has played a key role in the development of guidelines for the operations of manned and unmanned vehicles For example the Code o f Practice for the Operation of Manned Submersible Craft and the Guidance Note for Safe and Efficient Use of ROVs
The committee is now concentrating on formalising standards to be applied to the recruitment, education and practical training of offshore ROV personnel
This requirement has been considered in detail by the committee and has resulted in the setting up of an AODC ROV initiative to establish a personnel training standard See fig 1
OVERVIEW OF THE INDUSTRY
SAFETY
ROV DEPLOYMENT
SEAMANSHIP
ROV OPFRATION & MAINTENANCE
It has been recognised for some time that within the ROV industry each operating company uses different criteria to select personnel, each has its own career path and to some degree each operator has a different title for the same category or type of personnel
Additionally there are varying degrees of technical knowledge, piloting skills, maintenance expertise and experience called for in operations personnel depending on the type of ROV and task for which the system is employed
Whilst this situation makes it very difficult to draw a baseline for a Training and Certification Standard a structure has been devised within which all aspects of training and certification requirements will be addressed and standards set
