Lose weight or lose your jobs, offshore workers told

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A directive has been issued to thousands of North Sea oil workers, informing them that they must shed some weight if they wish to continue flying offshore. Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) has set the maximum clothed weight for workers heading offshore at 124.7kg (19.5 st) effective November next year. Failure to meet this requirement could result in losing their jobs, as the Coastguard rescue helicopter winch load has a maximum capacity of 249kg (39st), which includes the weight of the worker, a rescue worker, a stretcher, and equipment.

This new weight limit policy was prompted by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) cautioning that the current rescue winch capacity may not safely lift heavier individuals. The weight of offshore workers has surged by approximately 10kg (1.5st) since 2008, leading to the implementation of this safety measure following a thorough industry expert review over the past two and a half years. Previously, regulations were introduced concerning shoulder width for workers boarding helicopters to offshore installations, where passengers with a shoulder span of 22in (56cm) or wider were classified as “extra broad” and had to sit beside a large helicopter window.

Graham Skinner, the health and safety manager at OEUK, expressed optimism that the new policy would not result in job losses, although he did not rule out this possibility. Employers are expected to offer support and find solutions for affected workers. Skinner emphasized the importance of clear communication with the workforce regarding the impending rules in place, urging everyone to comply by shedding weight by November next year. Despite the challenge ahead for approximately 2,270 workers to meet the weight limit, Skinner expressed confidence that most employees would successfully meet the requirements with the support of their employers and the offshore community

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