North Sea offshore workers face new weight limit as November deadline approaches
Around 800 offshore personnel still exceed the 124.7kg clothed weight cap that will be enforced from 1 November, risking loss of certification and jobs.
Offshore Energies UK has warned that up to eight hundred North Sea workers still weigh more than the 124.7kg clothed limit that will become mandatory on 1 November, when they must obtain a medical certificate to travel by helicopter. The regulation follows a Maritime and Coastguard Agency alert that rescue winches cannot safely lift heavier individuals. Data collected from over 35,000 travel records show the proportion above the threshold has fallen from 4.7% in 2022 to about 3.4% today.
Occupational health physician Niyi Adeleke says many workers are stressed, some pursuing drastic weight-loss measures, while others consider leaving offshore roles. Employment specialist Will Rollinson says firms must assess each case, offer support and possibly reassign staff before any dismissal. Graham Skinner of OEUK emphasizes the eight-week window for workers to meet the requirement to avoid being barred from heliport access.
Why it matters
The rule could force hundreds of offshore employees to lose weight or lose their jobs, affecting the North Sea energy sector.
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