Life of a Medic

Life of a medic aboard a Wincarrier wind turbine construction vessel.

Coming from more than 8 years working on Oil and Gas Seismic exploration vessels throughout the world, to working on a  Wind Carrier Vessel, that builds and installs wind turbines,  it was a nice change in scenery and a work environment for an Advanced Life Support Paramedic.

Being up on the ships bridge during the construction of a huge wind turbine out at sea is a sight to behold. After the ship has been lifted out of the sea on 4 legs that weigh about 100 tons each, the 800-ton crane located on the rear right leg can be utilized to lift its extra heavy loads without disrupting the stability of the ship in the water. The tower weighing in excess off 100 tons is lifted off the deck and with precision that I have not seen before placed on the tower base sticking out of the sea. The skilled crane operator lines up just shy of 100 bolts with such precision that they go in smoothly on lowering the massive load.

The vessel has an on-board clinic that is stocked up to Advanced Life Support level and has medication in compliance with the flag state the vessel sails under. There is an Advanced Life Support Paramedic on the vessel as per clients’ requirements. If there is an “on board” emergency the catering staff and stewardesses make up the medical team on board.

The on-board medical team have regular training sessions and up to date topics are discussed and practiced.

Even though it is a working ship at sea, we try and keep everything as close to their home environment as possible providing facilities for the crew to relax together after shift, including a pool table, T.V. room and a separate games room with X Box and PS-4 consuls.

All in all, it is a productive and pro active work environment and we get the job done, safely and right the first time. 

By Steve Daly –  N.Dip AEC Technikon Natal 1995 – Advanced Life Support Paramedic