Offshore Tips

Don't upset the Radio Operator, Medic or Chef! Helicopters, medical treatment and food are most important to an offshore worker, not necessarily in that order!

But seriously, as you get your first few trips under your belt you will have your preferences of what you like to take with you.

Some people take laptop computers, however because bags can get rough treatment sometimes this is not a recommended item to bring. Many rigs have their own computers for recreational use. Others take packets of sweets, books, newspapers, magazines etc.

There are more important things to bring, like your personnel protective equipment (PPE). However, if directly employed by the rig's owners, you are likely to be supplied with this when you get to the rig. You should also bring separate work clothes worn under your boiler suit as they are washed every day, shoes to wear when you are going for your mid shift meal and clothes and shoes (most wear trainers or flip-flops) to wear off shift.

It is mandatory to take your passport and advisable to take a copy of your offshore survival certificate and your approved medical certificate.Some rigs do not get regular papers, so take a paper or two out with you every trip, but especially your first. Take three, as you will instantly make three friends. Keep one for your direct boss. Nobody will look down on you for this and it will not be seen as crawling or favouritism, as everyone on the rig will eventually see the papers as they get passed around.

A common payment for favours done or to say thank you is to buy a 'can of coke and a mars bar', rig-code for any bar of chocolate and any can of soft drink. If you want promotion, keep moving at all times. A steady pace all day. If you have time for a slack period, grab a tool or something and walk with it. Don't stand about talking with nothing in your hands. Every piece of lifting equipment has a colour code on it, this shows it was tested as safe to use at the last lifting equipment check. Only items with the current colour code should be used.

To Bring Or Not To Bring?

What NOT to BringThe following is only a guide. It is not a comprehensive list.
Lighters
Matches (Safety matches will be provided in smoking areas)
Alcohol
Illegal drugs
Weapons of any description, including knives
Flammable items
Remove batteries from electrical equipment before checking in your baggage.
Your mobile phone may be taken from you before you board the helicopter.