About to do HUET? Here is exactly what Helicopter Underwater Escape Training involves, swimming requirements, how to handle nerves, and how the certification works.
What is HUET?
HUET (Helicopter Underwater Escape Training) teaches offshore personnel how to safely escape from a helicopter that has ditched and capsized in water. It is delivered with an Emergency Breathing System (EBS) and is a core part of BOSIET and T-BOSIET.
Why HUET is Mandatory
Most offshore workers travel to installations by helicopter, so the industry requires everyone to be able to escape a submerged, inverted aircraft. HUET turns a terrifying scenario into a practised, survivable one.
What Happens During Training
You learn brace positions, pre-ditching actions and how to locate and operate exits. In the pool you practise escaping from a Modular Egress Training Simulator (METS) — including while it rolls and inverts underwater — under close instructor supervision.
Swimming Requirements
You do not need to be a strong swimmer, but you must be comfortable putting your face in water and holding your breath briefly. All exercises are run in a controlled, heated pool with instructors and safety divers present.
Common Fears and How to Overcome Them
Nervousness is completely normal. Instructors build up gradually — from simple exits to the full inverted escape — so your confidence grows with each attempt. Breathing calmly and following the brief makes a huge difference.
Safety Procedures Taught
You will learn reference points for locating exits, how to release your harness in the correct sequence, how to deploy and breathe from the EBS, and how to support others once on the surface.
Certification and Validity
HUET is delivered within BOSIET / T-BOSIET, and the resulting certificate is valid for 4 years. Refresher training (FOET / T-FOET) keeps it current.
Preparing for Your HUET Assessment
Get a good night's sleep, eat lightly, bring swimwear and a towel, and arrive ready to listen carefully to the safety brief. A calm, prepared mindset is the best preparation.
Train at IMOST Academy
IMOST Academy is an OPITO-approved offshore safety training centre in Kochi, Kerala, with a 10-acre campus, modern survival pool, helicopter underwater escape simulator and dedicated fire ground. Contact us or call +91 80757 87307 to plan your training.