Rescue Workers Job Description and Training
Rescue Worker’s Job Description
The rescue staff are responsible for maintaining the rescue capabilities of the airport during periods of air traffic. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport operates a dedicated rescue service. At other airports, the rescue capabilities are handled by the maintenance units alongside their other duties. The primary task is to ensure the safety of air traffic. Where possible, rescue personnel will also take part in other rescue activities on the airport grounds and in the immediate vicinity. Rescue staff will work in close cooperation with local rescue officials. Sound physical fitness is required for rescue work and for keeping up occupational skills.
Job titles for rescue personnel include firefighter, station officer, divisional officer, chief fire officer, chief rescue officer.
Rescue Training
At the beginning of their job contract, rescue personnel are given basic vocational training at Avia College. The basic course lasts four weeks. During that time the trainee is taught the basic capabilities to act in various air traffic accident and emergency situations. Training includes theoretical study and practical exercises in the exercise area. After the course the employee may work in firemen’s duties independently.
Supplementary vocational training is provided at the airports as regularly repeated instruction. Rescue personnel must take part every five years in the refresher courses organized by Avia College for rescue workers.
Avia College also provides further vocational training for rescue personnel. The chief rescue officer’s course and the chief rescue officer’s refresher course are designed for airport chief fire officers, firefighters and station officers. The main emphasis of the chief rescue officer’s course is to provide basic information concerning the management of rescue operations. Further training courses rehearse leadership skills as well as teaching officers how to make public appearances and provide information, and how to plan rescue operations.
