IMPACT Trustees have been exploring options for ensuring Ironworkers are able to work on wind farm projects. While Ironworkers have been erecting wind turbines for many years, with the increase in the number of wind farms there has also been an increase in training requirements in three areas: tower climbing / rescue training, torque and tension training and wind turbine maintenance.
In June of 2009, a team representing the Ironworkers International, IMPACT and several local unions visited the Wind Turbine Technician Training program at the Francis Tuttle Technology Center in Oklahoma City. Their training program addresses all three areas of interest to the Ironworkers and has a very strong hands-on focus. The program has partnerships with HYTORC, Snap-On, and DBI-SALA which allows those who complete the program to receive certificates from these nationally recognized organizations.
As a result of the initial site visit, the IMPACT Trustees voted to send a team to Oklahoma City to participate in a pilot course designed for the Ironworkers. The course participants included:
- Julio Gonzalez, Local 263
- Tom Halligan, Local 6
- Ken Kobus, Local 444
- Phil Templeton, Local 433
- Todd Anderson, Local 27
- Walter Ashford, Local 48
- Dan Walker, Local 27
The tower climbing and rescue training component of the course covers the different forms of fall protection, rescue and evacuation techniques, types of equipment, and the proper use, care, and maintenance of height safety equipment used in the wind energy workplace. Upon successful completion of this component of the course, participants receive a nationally recognized DBI Tower Safety Certificate.
The torque certification component of the course will certify participants in all aspects of torque. Topics include basic fasteners and safety, and mechanical, electronic and hydraulic torque. This component of the course uses a tremendous amount of hands-on learning, application, and certification from a leader in torque - Snap-on Tools. Participants receive three industry recognized certificates upon successful completion of the course.
Based upon recommendations from the Ironworkers attending the pilot course, the IMPACT Trustees will be considering options for making this training available to all Local Unions and signatory contractors.
For more information on IMPACT's Wind Turbine Training initiative, contact the IMPACT office at (800) 545-4921.