PISTA BLOG#33 (2024) HUET at PISTA-An Overview

 

HELICOPTER UNDERWATER ESCAPE TRAINING (HUET) at PISTA-An Overview.

Underwater escape is crucial for helicopter travel safety. The Offshore Oil and gas industry training organisation (OPITO) has been placing increased focus on this subject and operators need to know the best practices for helicopter underwater escape training (HUET). We at PISTA Blog Team interviewed HUET training Experts in the PISTA training team on factors affecting escapes, training topics, delivery methods, and safety improvements. PISTA has been providing OPITO approved training since 2018 and is a regional pioneer in the field of Offshore Oil and gas safety training.

HELICOPTER UNDERWATER ESCAPE TRAINING (HUET)

“To escape a submerging helicopter, individuals must overcome panic, disorientation, confusion, impaired vision when underwater, loss of balance, a sense of being adrift, misjudgements of surroundings, and, in certain regions of the world, extreme cold as well” says Amirtharaj a HUET trainer at PISTA.

He adds “Several factors can hinder escape to an Aviation life raft, including preparedness, physical characteristics of the helicopter, bodily functions, and mental state. Effective bracing for impact (BRACE! BRACE!! BRACE!!!)can help minimize some of these injuries.”

 

When a helicopter plunges into water, it’s highly probable that it will capsize, causing water, fuel, oil, and debris to rapidly flood the Helicopter cabin. The sudden and forceful entry into the water can generate significant turbulence, further complicating the situation for those inside, observes Mathan Karmel, a HUET trainer at PISTA.

"Submersion can happen at any moment, often to depths that make survival impossible. Disorientation, confusion, fear, blurred vision, loss of equilibrium, a sense of disconnection from surroundings, distorted perceptions, and in certain regions, the effects of extreme cold, are all challenges that passengers may face and must overcome to safely exit the submerged helicopter," he explains.

“….and even after successfully escaping, survivors may still find themselves in a potentially dangerous marine environment. This is why Sea Survival Techniques are incorporated into the comprehensive and mandatory safety training program, BOSIET, for all Offshore Oil and Gas Industry personnel” he adds on.

Mathan also notes that underwater disorientation and disorderly evacuation can occur in water crashes. Disordered evacuation happens when everyone tries to exit through the same opening. Underwater disorientation is caused by body rotation and the loss of gravity, making it difficult to orient oneself before escaping from an inverted, sunken helicopter.

In-rushing water has four serious consequences:

1. PANIC: Fear of drowning.
2. HYPERVENTILATION: Rapid breathing that reduces breath-holding ability.
3. MOVEMENT: Can cause severe disorientation.
4. COLD WATER: Water below 50°F can lead to panic, hyperventilation, reduced breath-holding, and cardiac arrest if not wearing a protective suit.

Limited vision also hinders orientation. Buoyancy can make it difficult to escape, especially for those who aren't agile or experienced underwater.

Survivors often run out of air while attempting to escape. They may struggle to release their harness, untangle from their headset, and navigate through debris. Holding your breath or using a compressed air device is crucial for underwater escape, especially in cold water.

The most common cause of death in survivable accidents is injuries before escape. Contact injuries are more likely than acceleration injuries. Adopting a good crash position can reduce the risk of head, arm, and leg injuries. Staying still in your seat can minimize disorientation during and after a crash, especially in accidents with smoke, fire, or sudden water intrusion.

Mathan believes survival suits and life rafts , communication devices are valuable. Survival suits should be comfortable, easy to use, durable, and affordable. They must slow down hypothermia. Life rafts can be difficult to deploy from an inverted, submerged helicopter.

TRAINING IS THE KEY AND AT PISTA HUET TRAINING FOCUSES ON:

• Effective bracing for impact.
• Locating exits and seat buckles.
• Timely ejection of exit windows.
• Using emergency breathing systems (EBS).

 CHALLENGES TO OVERCOME DURING ESCAPE ARE:

• In-rushing water, fire, smoke, fuel, and darkness.
• Releasing harness/Safety Belt and finding escape hatch/window.
• Disorientation, equipment hindrance, cold, injury, being pinned, being blocked, and reduced breath-holding.
• Post-escape hazards: drowning, hypothermia, rescue injuries.

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE ON BOARD AN AVIATION LIFE RAFT:

• Personal equipment (survival suit, life preserver, breathing devices, knives, flashlights, flares).
• Proper use and care of equipment.

REALISTIC TRAINING MODULES are enacted ,with aircraft doors, windows, hatches, and exit systems.

The Training Manager at PISTA, when asked about the HUET DELIVERY AND THE BEST PRACTICES FOLLOWED AT PISTA says:

• HUET training are comprehensive as per OPITO standards.
• The Module covers all aspects of survival in a marine environment.
• Training Includes underwater egress with and without emergency breathing apparatus.

He goes on to add…."Training arrangements at PISTA include:"

• HUET instructors and two safety divers, Pool safety personnel, remote crane operators and training safety look-outs and medical personnel on standby.
• Training emphasizes use of personal protective equipment, particularly immersion or Aviation transit /survival suits. Instructions also include proper wearing, donning, doffing procedures.
• Trainings include Practical demonstrations of surface and inverted abandonments.
• Surface abandonments before inverted position.
• Successful completion of all necessary unassisted escapes.
• Sessions include crash position demonstrations and EBS training.
• EBS usage and Life jackets deployments, life raft deployment.

PISTA Training simulator is a replica of common helicopters used offshore and enables a realistic learning experience.

The trainers at PISTA feel that HUET should be mandatory for all aircrews and passengers flying overwater. The PISTA training team is also excited that Compressed air emergency breathing apparatus (CA-EBS) will soon be part of the curriculum at PISTA -The 1^st OPITO approved Training centre in Southern India Region.

 

PISTA BLOG#32 (2024): VIJAYA DASHAMI 2024: CELEBRATING THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN INDIAN O&G INDUSTRY

 

PISTA BLOG#32 2024: VIJAYA DASHAMI 2024: CELEBRATING THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN INDIAN OIL & GAS INDUSTRY

In recent decades, India's economy has experienced remarkable growth, emerging as one of the world's fastest-growing economies. The energy sector plays a crucial role in this development, offering opportunities for long-term stability, self-reliance, and global prominence.

Research has shown a strong correlation between India's GDP and female labour force participation. Increasing women's participation in the workforce can significantly boost Indian economic growth. In the Oil and Gas industry, women's contributions are essential for driving innovation, improving efficiency, and fostering a more inclusive and equitable workplace.

Technology is playing a pivotal role in transforming the oil and gas industry, enabling greater automation and robotics. This shift offers opportunities for women to take on roles traditionally dominated by men, such as physically demanding tasks. As technology continues to advance, it will create a more level playing field for women in the industry.

The oil and gas industry is actively seeking to attract and advance women in various roles, from nontechnical positions like finance and law to engineering and operations. By leveraging diversity, the industry can benefit from the unique perspectives and skills that women bring to the table.

As India continues to grow and modernize, the future of women in the oil and gas industry is bright. By embracing diversity and harnessing the potential of female talent, the industry can contribute significantly to the nation's economic development and global standing.

THE BENEFITS OF GENDER DIVERSITY IN THE INDIAN OIL & GAS INDUSTRY

Oil and gas companies are encouraged to hire or promote the best candidate for every position, not make choices based on statistics or percentages. People want to be hired and promoted based on their merits, but they have to be given a seat at the table before that can happen. Research shows that making gender diversity is beneficial for companies that make it a priority. A few benefits are:

• Innovation: Diverse teams bring different perspectives, leading to more creative solutions and increased business success.
• Productivity: Companies with higher gender diversity often have higher productivity levels, thanks to a more inclusive work environment and increased collaboration.
• Financial Performance: Studies show that companies with greater gender diversity on executive teams tend to outperform their competitors financially.
• Positive Culture: Diversity fosters a more welcoming and respectful workplace culture, where everyone feels valued and heard.
• Talent Attraction: A commitment to diversity can attract and retain top female talent, enhancing a company's competitiveness.

This sector has historically been inflexible regarding work-life balance. However, the pandemic in 2019 has allowed for a shift to more remote and hybrid work environments, allowing women to take on more leadership roles and balance work with family life. Further, having more women working in the O&G industry has brought a “softness” to the industry, forcing companies to adopt better conditions for women and maternity policies.

WOMEN'S IMPACT ON THE INDIAN WORKFORCE: A GROWING FORCE

Since pre-Independence India, women have played a vital role in the country's growth story. Today, it's no longer uncommon to see a woman in her safety helmet, overalls and boots, working with fellow workers hand-in-hand in various industries, including the oil and gas sector. With their creative minds and boundless energy, women have already made significant contributions to the Oil and gas industry, leading to increased profitability and a more equitable society.

India's young and hardworking workforce presents a tremendous opportunity for growth. A large percentage of women are eager to join the oil and gas sector, but the industry must actively work to attract, retain, and empower them. Doing so will not only reduce women's financial dependence but also help to bridge the wealth gap in society. By increasing women's participation in the oil and gas sector, India can promote gender equality and create a more prosperous and equitable nation.

OVERCOMING THESE CHALLENGES:

While progress has been made, women in the oil and gas industry still face significant challenges. These include limited access to resources, funding, and support, as well as persistent gender biases that can hinder their advancement. Additionally, cultural and societal barriers such as limited access to education, training, and mentorship can further impede women's progress.

To overcome these obstacles, it is crucial to create an inclusive and supportive environment for women. This can involve providing specialized training, implementing policies that promote diversity and inclusion, and fostering a culture of respect and support for women from all backgrounds. By addressing these challenges, we can empower women to thrive in the oil and gas industry.

BREAKING BARRIERS: THE “NIGHT SHIFTS” IN INDIAN LABOUR LAWS

In the past, discriminatory labour laws restricted women's participation in the Indian workforce. However, a significant milestone was achieved in 2005 when the Indian government abolished a law that prohibited women from working night shifts. This decision paved the way for greater gender equality and increased women's presence in various industries.

While progress has been made, there is still much to be done to create a truly inclusive environment for women in the oil and gas sector. To achieve gender parity, we need to challenge outdated perceptions and adopt policies that promote equal opportunities, fair pay, and safe working conditions. This can involve targeted recruitment efforts, training programs, mentorship initiatives, and leadership development opportunities. By taking these steps, we can create a more equitable and prosperous future for women in the oil and gas industry.

CONCLUSION:

To make the oil and gas industry more accessible for women, we need to:

1. Challenge Stereotypes: Break down outdated beliefs about women's roles in this industry.
2. Leadership Commitment: Senior leaders should publicly support diversity initiatives and create a welcoming environment.
3. Employee Involvement: Encourage all employees to participate in diversity and inclusion efforts.
4. Industry Collaboration: Work together with other companies in the industry to promote diversity.
5. Mentorship: Provide opportunities for women to learn from and be inspired by successful female leaders.
6. Training and Development: Offer training programs that address diversity and inclusion issues and help women overcome industry-specific barriers.
7. Awareness Campaigns: Raise awareness about diversity issues and promote a more inclusive workplace culture.
8. Collaboration: Foster a collaborative and supportive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

Currently, more Indian women are joining the workforce than ever before, contributing significantly to the country's economic development. To help them reach their full potential, we need to create a supportive environment where men and women mentor and empower each other.

We can celebrate the achievements of these remarkable women by recognizing their perseverance, dedication, and commitment. Women's participation is essential for India to become a global economic powerhouse. By embracing their unique skills and perspectives, we can create a more equitable and prosperous nation.

The Indian oil and gas industry has made progress in diversity thanks to few organizations dedicated to empowering women. PISTA is one such organisation committed to this cause, and during the festive season dedicated to the Indian goddesses of wealth, knowledge, and strength, we at PISTA wish everyone a HAPPY AYUDHA POOJA & VIJAYA DASHIMI 2024.