Workplace Health and Safety

In addition, the company plans to obtain ISO 50001:2018 (Energy Management System) certification in 2025, becoming the first company in Taiwan’s offshore wind industry to achieve this certification. This milestone will further strengthen our energy management practices and sustainable development strategy. These certifications and policies not only reflect DFO’s commitment to employee safety and environmental protection but also lay a solid foundation for sound governance, ensuring our continued leadership in the offshore wind sector. 

2. Workplace Safety Measures and Risk Management

Considering the unique nature of offshore engineering and marine transport, DFO has implemented systematic safety measures and risk control mechanisms to ensure a safe and stable working environment for all employees.

2.1 Fire Risk Identification and Mitigation

Fire risk is taken seriously, particularly in high-risk areas such as engine rooms, cargo holds, and fuel storage zones. Measures include:

• Risk Assessments: Regular evaluation of fire hazards and implementation of control measures.

• Fire Mitigation:

  • Installation of automatic fire detection and suppression systems (e.g., smoke detectors, sprinklers).

  • Availability of sufficient firefighting equipment, including fire extinguishers and blankets.

  • Routine fire drills to ensure preparedness.

  • Strict control of flammable materials and clear no-smoking signage in critical zones.

2.2 Vessel and Equipment Safety

DFO ensures vessel and equipment safety through:

• Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Conducted in accordance with ISM Code and IMO standards.

• Emergency Preparedness Plans: Including procedures for abandonment, lifeboat operation, and crew evacuation—practiced regularly to ensure readiness.

2.3 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

DFO provides employees with internationally compliant PPE (e.g., helmets, life jackets, non-slip boots, goggles) and enforces:

• Monthly checks and replacements of damaged equipment.

• Appropriate gear for various work environments to mitigate operational risks.

2.4 Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment

DFO maintains a systematic risk management process:

• A formal procedure for identifying occupational health hazards and evaluating risks/opportunities.

• Risk assessment results inform the development of safety objectives, controls, emergency plans, and training to ensure a safe work environment.

2.5 Emergency Response Management

In alignment with IMO guidelines, DFO conducts:

• Monthly emergency drills for fire, abandonment, collision, man overboard, emergency towing, oil spills, and flooding.

• Comprehensive emergency procedures to ensure employees are prepared for unexpected events.

2.6 Innovation in Safety Technology

DFO has introduced Taiwan’s first operation and maintenance vessel with a motion-compensated gangway, allowing for safe crew transfer to turbine platforms. This significantly reduces man-overboard risks and improves operational efficiency.

3. Environmental Protection Measures and Initiatives

DFO incorporates environmental protection into its core sustainability strategy, implementing various initiatives to reduce ecological impact and support the transition to green energy.

3.1 Waste Management

In strict compliance with the MARPOL Convention, DFO ensures proper handling of vessel waste (e.g., oily residues, garbage, wastewater) through:

• Onboard waste sorting and recycling systems.

• Periodic waste management audits to minimize environmental impact.

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aligned with international environmental standards.

3.2 Marine Ecology and Cetacean Protection

DFO acknowledges the potential impact of offshore wind operations on marine ecosystems, especially cetaceans, and has adopted the following measures:

• Low-Noise Equipment: Utilizing environmentally friendly, low-noise construction technologies.

• Trained Cetacean Observers: Six observers certified as Marine Mammal Observers (MMO), with 2–4 assigned per vessel to monitor and avoid cetacean activity zones.

• Route Planning: Routes are designed to avoid whale and dolphin habitats and reduce disruption.

• Dedicated Observation Vessels: Deployed for constant monitoring and to prevent collisions with marine mammals.

3.3 Marine Emissions and Air Quality Control

In response to climate change, DFO promotes its Green Ship Program, including:

• Low-sulfur fuels (<0.5%) and energy-saving technologies to reduce emissions and air pollution.

• Regular carbon emissions tracking and reporting, with reduction targets aligned with international climate commitments.

3.4 Energy Efficiency

To enhance energy performance, DFO has:

• Introduced smart energy management systems to optimize wind farm operations.

• Planned ISO 50001:2018 certification in 2025 to further improve energy efficiency and sustainability.

• Conducted periodic energy audits to identify and address high-consumption areas.

4. Implementation and Recognition

Through comprehensive safety and environmental practices, DFO has achieved significant results and earned recognition from external organizations.

4.1 Safety Training and Incident Statistics

• Training: At least 20 hours of safety training per employee annually, covering fire response, first aid, environmental protection, and occupational health.

• Accident Records: Zero major safety incidents over the past three years; injury rate consistently below industry average.

4.2 Certifications and Audit Mechanisms

• Certifications: DFO is ISO 45001 and ISO 14001 certified, confirming its commitment to safety and sustainability.

• Internal Audits: Quarterly HSE reviews reported to the Board of Directors to ensure continuous improvement.

4.3 Social Responsibility and Workplace Health

• CSR Awards: In 2024, DFO received the Gold Award in the Chunghwa Telecom CSR Supplier Audit.

• Healthy Workplace Certification: Achieved the Healthy Workplace - Health Initiation Mark in 2023 and the Health Promotion Mark in 2024, reflecting our long-term investment in employee well-being.