How long does OPITO helideck training take to complete?

OPITO helideck training typically takes one to two days to complete, depending on the specific course and your prior experience. The most common helideck courses are structured as short, intensive programs designed to fit around offshore project schedules. Below, we cover everything you need to know about the course content, duration, renewal requirements, and more.

What does OPITO helideck training actually involve?

OPITO helideck training prepares offshore personnel to safely manage helicopter landing and departure operations on offshore installations. The training covers firefighting on the helideck, emergency response procedures, communication with flight crews, and the use of specialist equipment. It is a practical, hands-on course that combines classroom theory with live exercises.

Participants learn to handle a range of scenarios, including fuel spillage fires, aircraft incidents, and emergency evacuations. The course is built around OPITO standards, which are internationally recognized in the offshore oil and gas industry. Instructors bring real operational experience to the training, making the content directly applicable to working conditions on a live installation.

Key topics covered during the training include:

• Helideck firefighting techniques and equipment
• Roles and responsibilities of helideck personnel
• Communication procedures with helicopter crews
• Emergency response and casualty handling
• Helideck inspection and hazard identification
• Personal protective equipment specific to helideck operations

How many days does OPITO helideck training take?

Most OPITO helideck courses take one to two days to complete. The Helideck Assistant (HDA) course is typically a one-day program, while the Helideck Landing Officer (HLO) course runs over two days. The exact helideck training duration depends on the role you are training for and whether you are completing an initial course or a refresher.

The HLO course is longer because it includes a higher level of responsibility, covering the full management of helicopter operations on the deck. The HDA course focuses on the assistant role, supporting the HLO during arrivals, departures, and emergencies. Both courses are designed to be completed in a single block, making it straightforward to schedule them before a project mobilization.

Is OPITO helideck training the same as HUET?

No, OPITO helideck training and HUET are different courses that serve different purposes. HUET (Helicopter Underwater Escape Training) prepares offshore workers to escape from a submerged helicopter in the event of a ditching. Helideck training, by contrast, focuses on the safe management of helicopter operations on the installation itself. The two courses complement each other but are not interchangeable.

Workers who travel to offshore installations by helicopter will typically need HUET certification as part of their basic offshore safety training. Helideck training is an additional, role-specific qualification required only for those who work directly on the helideck. If you are unsure which courses apply to your role, the requirements are usually specified in your project or contract documentation.

How often do you need to renew OPITO helideck certification?

OPITO helideck certification must be renewed every two years. Both the HDA and HLO certificates carry a two-year validity period, after which a refresher course is required to maintain the qualification. Letting the certificate expire can prevent you from being deployed to a project, so it is important to plan renewal well in advance.

The renewal process involves completing a refresher course that revisits the core practical skills and any updates to procedures or equipment. Refresher courses are generally shorter than the initial qualification, though the exact length depends on the training provider and the specific course format. Keeping track of your expiry date and booking early helps avoid last-minute scheduling pressure.

Who needs to complete OPITO helideck training?

OPITO helideck training is required for anyone who works in a designated helideck role on an offshore oil and gas installation. This includes Helideck Assistants, who support helicopter operations, and Helideck Landing Officers, who hold overall responsibility for the safe conduct of those operations. The requirement is set by the installation operator and is non-negotiable for these roles.

Other offshore workers who travel by helicopter but do not work on the helideck do not need this specific certification. Their helicopter safety requirements are covered by standard OPITO basic offshore training, which includes HUET and other survival skills. If your contract or job description includes helideck duties, the HDA or HLO course will be listed as a mandatory requirement.

Where can you complete OPITO helideck training?

OPITO helideck training must be completed at an OPITO-approved training center. These centers are authorized to deliver the course to the required standard and issue certificates that are recognized by operators worldwide. When choosing a provider, it is worth confirming that the center holds current OPITO approval for the specific helideck course you need.

Training centers are often located near offshore industry hubs, ports, and airports to make it easier for workers to complete their training before mobilizing to a project. Availability of course dates and flexibility around scheduling are also practical factors to consider, particularly if you are working to a tight project timeline.

1. Confirm which helideck course you need (HDA or HLO) based on your job role
2. Check that the training center holds OPITO approval for that specific course
3. Verify that the location is practical for your travel arrangements
4. Book early to secure a date that fits your project mobilization schedule
5. Bring any required documentation, such as proof of previous certification for refresher courses

How we help you complete OPITO helideck training

At FMTC Safety, we offer a full range of OPITO helideck courses, including both the HDA and HLO programs, delivered by experienced instructors with real offshore backgrounds. Here is what you can expect when you book with us:

• Guaranteed course dates that run even with a small number of participants
• Strategically located training centers near ports, airports, and offshore industry hubs
• Free cancellation or rescheduling up to 24 hours before the course starts
• Certified, experienced instructors who make the training practical and directly relevant to your work
• Clear documentation so your certificate is ready when you need it for project mobilization

Whether you are booking for yourself or coordinating training for a team, we make the process straightforward. Get in touch or browse our available course dates to secure your place.