Executive Summary Final Report: Development of a Training Standard for Underwater Survival

Abstract

The following document discusses and summarises the findings of the research programme commissioned by The Shell Group, designed to aid the company in developing a standard for helicopter underwater escape training.

The research programme involved four stages of research. The initial stage involved a review of information relating to underwater survival, previous research and current training practices. The review indicated that passenger escape from a ditched helicopter was extremely hazardous. Given the frequency of flights in helicopters by employees in industries associated with oil production survival training is now provided. Whilst this training is widespread, the content and fidelity of training that employees receive is dependent on where in the world they work. As a result of this initial review a competency standard to be reached by trainees during training was developed in consultation with trainers and experts in the field.