Safer transfers for offshore renewable crews

The new FlexLanding configurations replace traditional steel boat landing ladder systems on CSOVs and offshore wind turbines, offering modular vessel equipment options for crew transfer and cargo mooring in demanding marine environments.

“FlexLanding delivers high performance and safety while significantly reducing maintenance requirements,” the company stated, highlighting the system’s dual configuration for emergency crew access and cargo operations.

Safety critical

Buoyant Works’ FlexLanding system has been engineered to meet the operational requirements of offshore renewables projects, where safe personnel transfer and reliable vessel equipment are critical.

The crew access version integrates ladder steps to support safe and efficient transfer from CTVs or daughter craft during offshore wind turbine maintenance, as well as boarding CSOVs.

For cargo operations, the system can be configured as a CSOV cargo mooring arrangement, with steps removed to facilitate lifting operations while maximising grip between the vessel and landing structure.

Manufactured using high-performance polyurethane, FlexLanding is designed for durability in harsh offshore conditions.

The company emphasised that the material combines robust performance with sustainability credentials, using eco-friendly components and offering extended service life.

Reduced maintenance requirements are expected to lower offshore interventions, contributing to improved vessel safety and reduced fuel consumption.

As a fully modular vessel equipment solution, individual FlexLanding sections can be replaced independently, minimising downtime and avoiding the cost of full structural replacement for offshore renewables operators.

New and innovative products on the market are always welcome – the dangers surrounding ladders on offshore vessels and other equipment failures are well known.

Last year, the UK’s Maritime & Coastguard Agency issued a safety bulletin following the discovery of counterfeit pilot ladders by the US Coast Guard during a Port State Control examination at the Port of Baltimore in the US.