Safeway Gangway, a leading provider of unique walk-to-work systems in the offshore wind industry, proudly announces the signing of a multi-year contract with Dong Fang Offshore 東方風能 (DFO). This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in the offshore industry and will greatly enhance operational efficiency and safety in the challenging waters of Taiwan.
Strengthening Offshore Capabilities
The collaboration with Dong Fang Offshore 東方風能 (DFO), the leading provider of vessel solutions for offshore wind projects in Taiwan, has led to the successful introduction of our Safeway Gangway Seagull system. Wijnand van Aalst, director of Safeway’s parent company, explains: “This innovative system is specifically designed to retrofit existing vessels, featuring unique capabilities such as a ten-meter vertical lift height, hover mode, and easy plug-and-play installation.”
Wijnand van Aalst adds: “We are proud of the trust Dong Fang Offshore 東方風能 (DFO) has placed in us by entering into this multi-year contract. It allows the crew of the ship and our gangway to become better synchronized, ultimately benefiting safety and efficiency.”
Pioneering with the Safeway Seagull in Taiwan
The Safeway Seagull system has proven ideal for offshore maintenance campaigns. Dong Fang Offshore 東方風能 (DFO) has retrofitted the Orient Constructor to become Taiwan’s first Walk2Work vessel, where the system plays a crucial role. “Our focus is on delivering high-quality solutions, especially under the challenging offshore conditions in Taiwan,” explains Ben Darrington, COO of Dong Fang Offshore 東方風能 (DFO).
High Quality and Reliability
Prior to selecting the Safeway Seagull system, Dong Fang Offshore 東方風能 (DFO) conducted a thorough evaluation of various gangway systems. They chose Safeway due to its high technical workability and reliability. “The way Safeway Gangway sought to build a true partnership with Dong Fang Offshore 東方風能 (DFO) was crucial in this decision,” says Ben Darrington.
Wijnand van Aalst emphasizes the quality of their operator training: “Our operators are educated at the Safeway Academy, which includes e-learning, VR training, hands-on job training, and training in hydraulic and electrical knowledge. This is part of our operational excellence: minimizing gangway failures and quickly resolving any issues that arise.”
Future Prospects and Local Production
Teamwork and problem-solving are central to this collaboration. Ben Darrington highlights: “A true partnership is about working together as a team, solving problems, and proactively adapting to specific situations,”.
Wijnand van Aalst says another important aspect of this partnership is the management of spare parts. “We believe it is important to have sufficient spare parts in Taiwan: critical and essential spares. The critical spares are on board, while the rest are stored in a warehouse in Taiwan. Additionally, we have technical staff on-site where the units are located,” explains Van Aalst. “When maintenance is required for a gangway, we track it in a PMS (Preventive Management System).”
Wijnand van Aalst also highlights the importance of customer contact: “If a customer wants to transport an electric cable or a hose with fluid through the gangway, we ensure that it is possible, no matter how challenging the request is.”