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What It Is Like ToWork On An Offshore Oil Rig?

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Jessica Wilson
What It Is Like ToWork On An Offshore Oil Rig?

There are over 1,000 offshore oil rigs worldwide, and taking up a job as an offshore oil worker would land you in any of these. Offshore oil rigs are quite extensive, and a single platform could host up to 200 employees. However, working in an offshore oil rig is not your average working environment. You ride in a chopper to get there, and you will be away from your family for weeks to months. You rarely see the outside, and you work around the clock. Consider this guide if you are curious to know how it feels working in an oil rig.


Minimum requirements before application

If you are interested in offshore drilling jobs, there are some mental and physical minimum requirements you must adhere to. Oil rigs operate around the clock, and even though there are shifts, one shift covers 12 hours. You should be 18 years or older and have the relevant certification. Smoking and drinking are not allowed, so you should be ready.


Safety and survival training before traveling

Working in offshore rigs is pretty dangerous, and you will have to take a survival training course before you land an assignment. You need to withstand harsh weather conditions, possible equipment failure, and combustible material. The BOSIET (Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training Course) teaches workers basic first aid and survival at sea.


Oil rig working conditions

In offshore drilling jobs, a shift in an oil rig is called a tour, and a hitch refers to one two-to four-week stay on the platform. You should plan adequately before you board the helicopter to the oil platform. Ensure your kin you're your employer details and contacts. Your employer also needs to have your family's contacts in case of emergencies.


Possible risks at the rig

Fire is the biggest risk you can face in an oil rig considering the volatile nature of gas and oil. There are also flammable drilling chemicals that would easily cause a fire if handled poorly. This is why fire emergency training is at the top of the list in emergency preparation for offshore drilling jobs.


You also have to consider the moving parts of oil rig machinery and other heavy equipment. These machines could cause serious injuries or death in the worst cases.


Shared accommodation and good food

Getting space in oil platforms is rare, and only a few offer single rooms for their employees. You might have to share rooms with others alongside shared bathrooms across multiple rooms. Always respect everyone you share the space with.


Oil companies always want the best working conditions for their employees, so the food served on the platforms is pretty good. Workers get freshly cooked food all through because helicopters bring in supplies frequently.


Rig life is not boring

Tights spaces in oil platforms do not stop the fun while working in offshore rigs. Workers can spend time in various gyms, TV rooms, pool tables, and cinemas. Rig workers need to unwind and relax despite the long shifts and tight tours.


Today, offshore oil rigs have a 24/7 internet connection that allows workers to communicate with their families. However, you should be mindful of others and use your time and connection wisely because everyone deserves to see their families.

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Jessica Wilson
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