vcc.ca
WTEC 1100: Introduction to Wind Turbine Systems and Safety
Effective date
September 2026
Department
Wind Turbine Technician
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
Students will gain foundational knowledge of wind turbine systems and develop essential safety competencies for working in renewable energy environments. Through hands-on training, learners will identify major turbine components, apply emergency response procedures, operate fire safety equipment, and conduct rescue operations. Emphasis is placed on proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), accurate documentation of safety protocols, and performing risk assessments.
Credits
2.5
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify and compare major wind turbine configurations and manufacturers using technical terminology.
- Analyze the operational differences between geared and direct drive turbine systems.
- Apply appropriate safety protocols and procedures during emergency scenarios.
- Select and properly use personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety equipment in various turbine work environments, meeting industry standards.
- Execute emergency response procedures, including properly sequencing all critical steps within industry-specified time constraints.
- Implement fire safety protocols in fire emergencies, identifying appropriate extinguisher types and demonstrating proper usage techniques.
- Perform basic rescue operations in a turbine work environment within industry standard timeframes.
- Document safety procedures and incidents using industry-standard forms and terminology.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 30
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 20
Total Hours: 50
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 20
Total Hours: 50
Instructional Strategies
A combination of lecture, demonstration, simulations, problem solving, practical lab activities and reflective discussion will be used throughout this course.
Grading System
Percentages-STBC
Passing grade
70
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
25 |
|
|
Quizzes/Tests |
25 |
|
|
Lab Work |
30 |
|
|
Final Exam |
20 |
|
Course topics
- Basic turbine configurations
- Major turbine manufacturers
- Geared vs direct drive systems
- Industry safety standards
- PPE requirements
- Emergency procedures
- Fire safety protocols
- Rescue operations
- Safety documentation
- Risk assessment
- Communication protocols
- Emergency response equipment
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.