Frequently Asked Questions
What is OPITO?
"OPITO - The Oil & Gas Academy" is an industry funded, employer-led organisation committed to developing the oil and gas industry's workforce capability now and in the future. OPITO courses are internationally recognised by the major Operators.
What's the difference between the PMA08, TBOSIET and BOSIET courses?
- PMA08
The following Units of Competency under the Process Manufacturing Australia Training Package (PMA08) are offered: - PMAOSH214B Undertake helicopter safety and escape
- PMAOHS215B Apply offshore facility abandonment and sea survival procedures and practices
These Units are Nationally Recognised Training under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and can contribute towards a Qualification. There is no validity period but Operators may require refresher training at their discretion. This qualification may or may not be recognised outside Australia, again dependent on the Operator.
- Tropical Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training TBOSIET)
This accreditation is the OPITO Recognised Training for Australian and International Tropical Waters. Validity - 4 years
- Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET)
This accreditation is the OPITO Recognised Training for Australian and International Cold and Tropical Waters. Mandatory for the North Sea.
Validity - 4 years
BOSIET encompasses all training for the TBOSIET as well as Emergency Breathing Systems (EBS) and Cold Water Immersion Suits and will enable you to work in both tropical and cold water climates.
What happens after the 4 year validity period?
Refresher training is required, dependent on what was initially undertaken.
- Tropical Further Offshore Emergency Training (TFOET) - This accreditation is a refresher for TBOSIET. Validity - 4 years
- Further Offshore Emergency Training (FOET) - This accreditation is a refresher for BOSIET. Validity - 4 years
Which is the best course to attend?
The best course to undertake is the one your company or prospective company requires. It's wise to check first with your company or the associated Operator to find out what their requirements are.
Am I likely to get a job out of this?
Red Alert Australia is not in a position to advise on likely employment prospects but we can guarantee our standard of training is of the highest calibre in line with the AQTF and OPITO Standards.
What is the booking process?
Registration forms must be completed and returned to Red Alert in order to be booked on an OPITO course. Mandy Paisley, the OPITO Training Coordinator, will happily send forms to you. She can be contacted via phone (03) 9360 9011 or email paisleya@red-alert.com.au
Can I reserve a booking?
Because of the high demand for OPITO courses no places can be reserved without a confirmed booking. Red Alert's first come - first serve policy means if you are keen to get onto a course on a particular date, you'll need to return all forms correctly completed promptly.
What forms do I have to return?
Once you've received the Red Alert Registration Email, you will see that there are four forms to be correctly completed - the Red Alert Registration form, the OPITO Delegate Form, the OPITO/Red Alert Medical Questionnaire, and the ESSO Indemnity Form.
Why do I have to sign an Indemnity form for ESSO?
All RAA OPITO courses are held at ESSO owned facilities and the Indemnity is a contractual requirement of ESSO.
Note: You are not indemnifying Red Alert Australia who is supplying and presenting the training.
What is MSIC?
Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC) - To enter secure Maritime Sites around Australia, you must apply for the MSIC. Day 3 of the BOSIET and Day 2 of the TBOSIET will be conducted at the Barry Beach Marine Terminal. This facility is classified as a Maritime Security Zone. Entry with a Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC) is preferable but not essential for training purposes. Please make sure this is indicated on the Registration form.
Payment Methods
When you receive the Red Alert Australia registration form you will see provisions for credit-card payment. We also accept Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). Should you wish to pay by cheque, you must ensure payment is made 7 days prior to the course commencement date.
Cost, Accommodation and Location?
Cost
Please refer to Victorian Public Schedule for updated costs and available dates.
Accommodation
We recommend a few choices in Sale:
- Hacienda
Cnr Princes Hwy & Raymond Street Sale
(03) 5144 1422
Room Rate - $80/night - The King Ave Comfort Inn
26 Princes Highway Sale
(03) 5143 2222
Room Rate - $139/night - The Midtown Motor Inn
91 York Street Sale
(03) 5144 1444
Room Rate - $66.30/night
Pricing is subject to change. If you mention you are training with Red Alert these corporate rates should apply.
Location
All OPITO courses are held in the Gippsland area outside Sale in Victoria's east. It's a three hour drive from Melbourne CBD and a 3 1/2 hour drive from Melbourne Airport. A more detailed map and directions will accompany the confirmation.
Contact

