API took a major step forward to enhance offshore safety by publishing the 1st Edition of Recommended Practice (RP) 2D-2 – a document focused solely on training the industry’s vitally important offshore crane riggers, operators, and inspectors.

The new standard also sets a new bar for training offered for pedestal-mounted cranes, which is essential to their safe operations. Until now, training had been based on a section of the API Spec 2D standard, while the new RP 2D-2 is a dedicated training standard, released together with separately updated editions of API Spec 2D, Operation and Maintenance of Offshore Cranes, and Spec 2C, Offshore Pedestal-mounted Cranes.

Why a Stand-Alone Training Standard?

The main reason for creating a stand-alone training standard stems from the increased number of training objectives that have emerged since the previous editions of the 2D standard. As the industry learned more and made advancements in the safe use of offshore cranes, the training requirements significantly grew. Based on the importance of these training requirements, it became clear a stand-alone document with a focus solely on training was warranted.

The primary reason for this increase in training objectives involves the inclusion of more hands-on application information. This addition helps provide practical and useful information to ensure that crane personnel are equipped with the knowledge and skills to perform their jobs safely and effectively in the field. The 1st Edition of RP 2D-2 enhances the robustness of previous training to strengthen competency and understanding of safety protocols, while making clear the expectations and requirements for achieving certifications for offshore crane operator, maintenance, and inspection.

As part of API’s commitment to workforce development across the industry, API now offers offshore pedestal-mounted cranes training instruction. The additional hands-on application information in new RP 2D-2 and related training adds further rigor to the training while also improving outcomes for those trained and the industry as a whole.

The Importance of Cranes at Offshore Facilities

Cranes are a necessary component of all floating and fixed platform drilling rigs, offshore productions facilities, and sea-going construction vessels. Even the dismantling of retired offshore facilities is dependent on these heavy-lifting devices. 

Without these machines, life and work on an offshore oil or natural gas platform would be nearly impossible. Platform workers would not be able to perform important tasks, including safety activities, receipt of food, medicine, communications hardware, and anything else required to sustain life for months at sea.

This means that the training received under RP 2D-2 is exceptionally valuable when it comes to supporting offshore workers and the vital work they do. The safe operation of these cranes enhances overall occupational safety at a facility, while enhancing environmental protection and sustainability. 

For more information on this standard, visit API's webstore at www.api.org. To learn more about API’s RP 2D training program, visit www.API-U.org.