Wind Turbine Lifting Operations Course

NPORS CATEGORY CODE: N051

Why Choose Wind Turbine Lifting Operations Training?

The NPORS N051 Wind Turbine Lifting Operations course is a purpose‑built training programme designed specifically for the global wind industry. It was developed in collaboration with Ørsted Offshore Wind Power and NPORS‑accredited instructors to meet the real operational and safety demands of turbine environments.

Historically, the wind sector relied on generic lifting courses such as Slinger/Signaller and Marine Knuckle Boom Crane. While robust, these programmes were not fully aligned with the wind industry’s unique operational processes. In response, NPORS created a dedicated category that reflects real‑world lifting practices both onshore and offshore.

N051 provides sector‑specific knowledge and hands‑on competence for technicians involved in lifting operations within wind turbine environments ensuring safe, consistent and compliant lifting activities across the sector.

Wind Turbine Operator looking out on offshore wind farms

Course Structure and Duration

The N051 Wind Turbine Lifting Operations course is available in formats to support both new entrants and experienced technicians. Employers can select the duration that best matches operational needs and individual experience:

  • 1‑day refresher training
  • 2‑day training programme
  • 3‑day training programme

Course Content

The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical lifting exercises tailored to wind turbine environments.

Knowledge and Understanding

  • Hazards associated with wind industry lifting operations and legal responsibilities.
  • Relevant legislation and standards, including HASAWA, PUWER, LOLER and BS 7121.
  • Types of cranes and hoists used in turbine environments, including their advantages and limitations.
  • Lifting accessories: construction, application, identification and inspection.
  • Safety systems on cranes and hoists, including overload protection.
  • Roles and responsibilities within the lifting team.
  • Human factors and environmental considerations.

Practical Skills

  • Pre‑use and post‑use equipment checks.
  • Interpreting lift plans, risk assessments and documentation.
  • Calculating load weights and centres of gravity.
  • Establishing exclusion zones and safe landing areas.
  • Selecting and using lifting accessories correctly.
  • Securing and guiding loads using taglines.
  • Communicating using agreed hand signals and radio protocol.
  • Managing blind lifts and landing loads outside the operator’s line of sight.

What is an OTC?

Key Lifting Operation Requirements

  • Lifts planned and supervised by a competent person.
  • Known and clearly marked load weights.
  • Hazard‑free assessment areas with enforced exclusion zones.
  • Certified operators and lifting equipment suitable for the assessment radius.
  • Use of certified lifting accessories (minimum of two types).
  • Accurate landing of loads within 100mm of the target point.
  • Use of radio communication and standardised hand signals (BS 7121).
  • Controlled movement of loads using secure, suitable taglines.
  • Loads made safe and secure after landing.

Assessement and Certification

Certification confirms that the individual has met NPORS standards for Wind Turbine Lifting Operations and holds recognised operator accreditation.

To successfully complete the course, participants must pass:

  • A theoretical examination; and
  • A practical assessment demonstrating safe and competent lifting operations.
Two wind turbine operators during an onshore wind farm inspection

Enrol for N051 Wind Turbine Lifting Operations

NPORS training and testing is delivered through a network of NPORS Accredited Training Providers.

Use our online search facility to find an NPORS training provider to deliver accredited Wind Turbine Lifting Operations training.