Work at height and Manual Handling combined

The GWO Working at Heights and Manual Handling Combined module (often abbreviated as WAH & MH Combined) is an optional integrated version of two separate GWO Basic Safety Training (BST) modules: Working at Heights (WAH) and Manual Handling (MH).

It was introduced to streamline training while covering all required learning objectives, reducing the total duration from 2.5 days (separate modules) to 2 days.

Main Objectives

The module enables participants, through theoretical and practical training, to:

• Safely use basic personal protective equipment (PPE) and perform work at heights in a wind turbine environment.
• Conduct comprehensive basic rescues from heights (e.g., from ladder, nacelle, or tower sections).
• Encourage positive ergonomic behavior, assess manual handling risks, and perform load-handling tasks safely to prevent injuries (e.g., back strains).

Key Content Covered

• Hazards and risks specific to working at heights in wind turbines (legislation, PPE markings, inspection, and fitting).
• Proper use of fall protection equipment (harnesses, lanyards, guided fall arresters, anchor points).
• Safe climbing techniques, evacuation devices, and basic rescue scenarios (e.g., rescuing an injured or suspended colleague).

• Ergonomic principles, risk reduction for manual handling, correct lifting/carrying techniques, and alternatives to manual lifting.
• Intensive practical exercises in simulated wind turbine environments (climbing towers, equipment inspections, rescues, and load handling).

Upon completion, participants receive two separate certifications uploaded to WINDA: one for Working at Heights and one for Manual Handling.

Validity: 24 months (refresher required afterward).