Education and Qualifications
Employers normally require ROV personnel to have a good background in electronics or hydraulics. Experience with pneumatics, plant maintenance or electrical or mechanical engineering may also be of interest to prospective employers. Candidates who do not have formal qualifications (academic, trade or in the armed forces) in one of these areas are unlikely to be considered.
Skills and Training
Generally there are no statutory requirements for ROV personnel to have particular qualifications. However, IMCA has published guidance entitled "Entry level requirements and basic introductory course for remotely operated vehicle (ROV) personnel" (IMCA R 002, as revised) which may be regarded as an appropriate minimum standard.
Training courses are available at a number of schools which allow newcomers to the industry to learn the basics and hopefully to comply with at least IMCA R 002. However, none of these courses is formally required as a prerequisite by any employers, and they will normally not be accepted as a basis for employment unless the person has the sort of background and qualifications described above. IMCA recommends that individuals discuss their own employment prospects with contractors before going on a training course.
Many of the larger ROV contractors train personnel in-house, allowing them to focus training on a particular area of commercial interest. A number of independent training establishments offer more general or other specialised training.
To work offshore in any capacity it is usually necessary to complete a basic offshore safety induction and emergency training (BOSIET) course. This generally includes first aid, safety at sea, the basics of fire and fire fighting and helicopter underwater escape training (HUET). In many regions, someone who has not successfully completed a course of this nature will not be permitted to work offshore
Medical Fitness
In many areas of the world, potential offshore workers must undergo and pass a special medical examination. These requirements may vary from country to country, but usually involve a medical leading to a certificate which may be valid for one or more years. The requirements are not unduly onerous for fit and active people but certain common conditions, or previous injuries, can be a cause for failure. If in any doubt, interested persons should seek out a doctor knowledgeable about offshore standards before they seek work or embark on a course of training.
Working Conditions and Prospects
Most ROV personnel are employed directly by one of the ROV operators or contractors. ROV work is normally constant around the year and is less ‘seasonal’ than diving. ROV personnel can expect to travel overseas. They have to be resourceful, resilient and be able to work in a team environment.
Further Information
There is no world-wide approval system for training providers, but we would suggest that you contact members of IMCA’s Remote Systems & ROV Division for details on the training they require or provide.
See our website at www.imca-int.com/members for the full listing and links to a number of such companies.
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