Atlantic Wind Transfers (AWT), North Kingstown, R.I., owner and operator of crew transfer vessels (CTVs) for the offshore wind industry, has partnered with the classification society DNV for the company’s integrated management system certification.
Through this partnership, AWT is pursuing international Safety Management Systems (SMS) certification and ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 certification under DNV's Fit for Purpose program. Fit for Purpose audit results are richer and more meaningful, designed not just to verify compliance but also to look at the overall effectiveness of the SMS and assess whether it helps the company reach its desired results and operational goals.
As the U.S. offshore wind industry expands, Atlantic Wind plans to be at the forefront in providing crew transfer services up and down the East Coast, the company said.
Charles A. Donadio Jr., AWT's president, said he sees the company's fleet of CTVs growing five-fold over the next five years, from its two-vessel fleet currently in operation, and the business expanding to the West Coast as the industry grows. Donadio is keen that AWT maintain its position as a leader in technology and design in the sector and in growing the business through innovation and collaboration with its European counterparts. He said that the company's management system certification as an integral part of that growth plan.
"Looking ahead to the future of U.S. offshore wind, safety will be of utmost importance," Donadio said. "Understanding the evolution of offshore wind in Europe and what the expectations are of European developers, we are readying ourselves to be on par with the European standard. There is no current SMS certification requirement locally, but AWT seeks to ensure the company has a foundation for future growth. After all, it's the same European developers that are planting roots here. Our voluntary efforts reflect our understanding of the industry's needs and our commitment to provide the sector's best turnkey operating model to benefit our clients and the industry."
"Having a strong Safety Management System and optimizing its effectiveness is business critical, and our involvement in certifying those audit processes will result in continuous improvement and have positive impact on AWT’s operation," said Antony DSouza, executive vice president and regional manager, DNV Maritime Americas. "It is a privilege for us to work with AWT in certifying their SMS and ISO systems. The U.S. offshore wind industry is positioned to take off in a big way, and as one of the leading operators in the space, their pursuit of voluntary certification is likely to set an industry standard."
