Introduction

The rapidly expanding capabilities of Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) have revolutionized underwater operations across a multitude of industries, from offshore energy and subsea infrastructure inspection to scientific research and search and recovery. Operating in environments often hostile or inaccessible to human divers, underwater ROVs provide unparalleled safety, precision, and endurance for critical tasks. However, effectively deploying and managing these sophisticated machines demands highly specialized skills, encompassing not just piloting prowess but also a deep understanding of subsea navigation, sensor integration, data acquisition, and vehicle maintenance. As the global demand for underwater robotic solutions escalates, particularly in the deep-sea and challenging coastal zones, a new generation of skilled ROV Pilot Technicians is urgently needed to unlock the full potential of these transformative technologies. This comprehensive training course focuses on Underwater ROV Training, with special emphasis on the Introduction to ROV and ROV Pilot Technician – Observation/Inspection Class Vehicles courses, preparing individuals for successful careers in subsea robotics.

This intensive training course provides a comprehensive and practical guide to operating and maintaining underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), with a specific focus on Observation/Inspection Class Vehicles. Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of the fundamental principles of ROV technology, subsea operations, and safety protocols. We will delve into topics such as ROV system components, basic piloting techniques, navigation and positioning, and data acquisition using various sensors. The course will cover the essential skills required for ROV fault diagnosis, routine maintenance, and launch/recovery procedures. By mastering the technical skills and practical operations for underwater ROV pilot technicians, you will be equipped to confidently deploy, operate, and maintain observation/inspection class ROVs for a wide range of subsea tasks.

Target Audience

• Aspiring ROV Pilot Technicians
• Offshore Oil & Gas Technicians
• Subsea Engineers
• Marine Scientists & Researchers
• Hydrographic Surveyors
• Underwater Inspection Personnel
• Search & Rescue / Salvage Professionals
• Dive Supervisors & Commercial Divers

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamental concepts of underwater Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and their applications.
• Identify the components and systems of Observation/Inspection Class ROVs.
• Learn basic ROV piloting techniques and maneuverability in a controlled environment.
• Master subsea navigation and positioning techniques for ROV operations.
• Gain proficiency in operating ROV cameras and sensors for data acquisition.
• Understand safety protocols and emergency procedures for ROV deployment.
• Develop skills in ROV launch, recovery, and tether management.
• Learn routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting of ROV systems.
• Comprehend the principles of subsea acoustics and communication.
• Explore the applications of observation/inspection ROVs in various industries.
• Practice data recording and reporting procedures for ROV missions.

DURATION

10 Days

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)

• History and evolution of ROV technology.
• Defining ROVs: types, classifications (observation, work class, trencher).
• Key components of an ROV system: vehicle, tether, control console, launch system.
• Applications of ROVs in offshore energy, defense, science, and more.
• Advantages of ROVs over human divers in subsea environments.

Module 2: ROV Safety & Operations Overview

• General safety principles for subsea operations.
• ROV specific hazards: electrical, hydraulic, mechanical, environmental.
• Emergency procedures and contingency planning.
• Permit-to-Work systems and job safety analysis (JSA).
• International regulations and industry standards for ROV operations.

Module 3: ROV Pilot Technician Roles & Responsibilities

• Duties of an ROV Pilot Technician I and II.
• Team roles in an ROV crew: pilot, co-pilot, supervisor.
• Communication protocols on deck and with the control room.
• Pre-dive checks and post-dive procedures.
• Logbook entries and documentation requirements.

Module 4: Observation/Inspection Class ROV Systems

• Detailed breakdown of typical observation ROV components: thrusters, lights, cameras.
• Power systems: electrical, battery, hydraulic (if applicable).
• Sensor payloads: standard cameras, sonar, altimeters.
• Tether management systems (TMS) and their importance.
• Control console and human-machine interface (HMI).

Module 5: Basic ROV Piloting Techniques

• Control console familiarization and joystick operation.
• Maneuvering in 3D space: forward, reverse, lateral, vertical, rotation.
• Maintaining depth and heading control.
• Precision hovering and station keeping.
• Simulated piloting exercises for basic navigation.

Module 6: Subsea Navigation & Positioning

• Understanding navigation principles underwater: DVL, USBL, LBL.
• GPS and its limitations subsea.
• Compass calibration and heading references.
• Sonar systems for obstacle avoidance and mapping: scanning, multibeam.
• Using transponders and acoustic positioning systems.

Module 7: ROV Camera & Sensor Operation

• Types of underwater cameras: high-definition, low-light, zoom.
• Optimal camera positioning and lighting techniques for inspection.
• Operating sonar for target identification and navigation.
• Understanding altimeters and depth sensors.
• Data recording and annotation during missions.

Module 8: ROV Launch, Recovery & Deck Operations

• Vessel-of-Opportunity considerations for ROV deployment.
• Launch and recovery procedures for various sea states.
• Tether handling and management on deck.
• Working with LARS (Launch and Recovery Systems).
• Safety during deployment and retrieval.

Module 9: ROV Maintenance & Troubleshooting (Level 1)

• Routine checks and preventative maintenance schedules.
• Troubleshooting common ROV faults: power, thruster, communication issues.
• Basic sensor calibration and adjustment.
• Replacing consumable parts: O-rings, lights.
• Maintaining cleanliness and environmental protection for components.

Module 10: Introduction to Subsea Tooling & Manipulators

• Overview of basic ROV tooling: cutters, grabbers, simple manipulators.
• Understanding the function of various manipulators for inspection tasks.
• Tool deployment and recovery procedures.
• Integrating specialized tools for specific inspection requirements.
• Simulated manipulation tasks.

Module 11: Data Acquisition & Reporting for Inspection ROVs

• Collecting visual data: photos, video.
• Recording sensor data: depth, temperature, heading.
• Organizing and managing project data.
• Generating basic inspection reports and logs.
• Data transfer and backup procedures.

Module 12: Understanding Subsea Environments & Hazards

• Ocean currents, visibility, and water temperature impacts on ROVs.
• Marine life encounters and environmental considerations.
• Subsea infrastructure recognition: pipelines, cables, platforms.
• Entanglement risks and mitigation strategies.
• Weather impacts on surface support and ROV operations.

Module 13: Advanced Piloting Scenarios & Practice

• Piloting in challenging conditions: low visibility, strong currents.
• Precise inspection patterns: grid searches, close visual inspection (CVI).
• Navigating complex subsea structures.
• Emergency piloting drills: lost communication, thruster failure.
• Simulated mission exercises with increasing complexity.

Module 14: Practical ROV Simulation & Hands-On Training

• Extensive use of high-fidelity ROV simulators for skill development.
• Hands-on practice with observation-class ROVs in a controlled environment (pool/tank).
• Executing full mission profiles from launch to recovery.
• Troubleshooting practical scenarios during operations.
• Performance evaluation and feedback on piloting skills.

Module 15: Career Pathways & Industry Insights

• Job roles and career progression for ROV Pilot Technicians.
• Industry demand and market trends in subsea robotics.
• Networking opportunities within the ROV community.
• Continuing education and advanced certifications.
• Future of ROV technology and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs).

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.