What should you wear during HUET training?

During HUET training, you should wear comfortable, close-fitting clothing that you do not mind getting wet. Swimwear or a swimsuit worn underneath your regular clothes is recommended, as you will be fully submerged during the helicopter underwater escape exercises. Loose items, jewelry, and accessories are not permitted inside the simulator.

HUET training, short for Helicopter Underwater Escape Training, is a mandatory safety course for offshore professionals who travel by helicopter to and from platforms or vessels. Knowing what to wear and what to prepare before your session helps the day run smoothly and safely. Below, we answer the most common questions about HUET training clothing and preparation.

What clothing is allowed inside a HUET simulator?

Inside a HUET simulator, you should wear close-fitting, non-restrictive clothing that allows you to move freely underwater. A swimsuit or swim shorts worn under your regular clothes is the standard approach. Avoid baggy garments, clothing with large pockets, or items with loose straps that could catch on the equipment during the escape exercise.

Most training centers will provide you with an immersion suit or coverall for the exercise itself, so your own clothing primarily serves as a base layer. Wear something you are comfortable getting completely soaked in. Synthetic fabrics that dry quickly are a practical choice. Cotton is fine but takes longer to dry, which can feel uncomfortable between exercises.

Are there items you cannot bring into the HUET pool?

Yes, several items are not permitted inside the HUET pool area. Jewelry, watches, rings, and piercings that cannot be removed pose a safety risk and should be left at home or secured in a locker before the session begins. Sharp objects and items with hard edges are also prohibited, as they can damage the simulator equipment or injure other participants.

The following items are typically not allowed in the water:

• Jewelry, including rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings
• Watches and fitness trackers
• Contact lenses (prescription goggles may be available on request)
• Sharp accessories or metal belt buckles
• Personal electronic devices

If you wear contact lenses, it is strongly recommended that you switch to glasses on the day of the course, or check with your training provider in advance about available alternatives.

Should you wear a wetsuit during HUET training?

In most standard HUET training courses, participants do not need to bring their own wetsuit. The training provider typically supplies the necessary protective gear, including immersion suits, for use during the water exercises. The pool water is usually kept at a comfortable temperature to ensure safe and effective training conditions.

That said, if you are sensitive to cold water or your training center operates in a cooler climate, it is worth asking your provider whether a wetsuit is recommended or available. Some centers offer them on request. For tropical HUET variants, the equipment and conditions may differ, so always confirm the specifics with your training location beforehand.

What should you do with long hair during HUET training?

If you have long hair, you must tie it back securely before entering the HUET simulator. Loose hair can become a hazard underwater, potentially obstructing your vision during the escape sequence or getting caught in the equipment. A tight bun or braid secured with a hair tie is the most practical option.

Avoid using clips, pins, or hard accessories to secure your hair, as these can come loose in the water and create a safety risk. A simple elastic hair tie works best. If you are unsure whether your hairstyle is suitable, ask your instructor before the water exercise begins.

What should you bring to a HUET training course?

To prepare well for a HUET training course, bring the following items on the day of your session:

1. A swimsuit or swim shorts to wear as a base layer under your clothing
2. A towel, ideally a large one, as you will be wet after the pool exercises
3. A change of dry clothes for after the training is complete
4. A bag for wet items to store your soaked clothing after the session
5. Your valid ID and any required course documentation
6. Glasses instead of contact lenses, if applicable

Arrive well-rested and avoid heavy meals immediately before the water exercises. Some participants find the simulator exercises physically demanding, especially if it is their first time. Staying hydrated and eating a light meal a couple of hours before the session is a sensible approach.

If you are completing a BOSIET course that includes HUET exercises, the preparation advice above applies equally. Check your course confirmation email for any provider-specific requirements, as some locations may have additional guidelines.

How FMTC Safety helps you prepare for HUET training

Arriving at your HUET course well-prepared makes a real difference to your experience on the day. At FMTC Safety, we make sure participants know exactly what to expect before they arrive. Here is what we offer to support you:

• Clear pre-course information sent ahead of your booking, including what to bring and what to wear
• Experienced, certified instructors who guide you through every step of the water exercises
• All required training equipment, including immersion suits, provided on location
• Flexible scheduling and free cancellation or rescheduling up to 24 hours before the course
• Training centers located near airports, ports, and major offshore industry hubs for easy access

Whether you are booking as an individual offshore professional or arranging training for a team, we are here to help. Browse our HUET and BOSIET courses to find the right option for your certification needs and book your place today.