Do Oil Rig Workers Need a Permit to Leave the Rig During COVID-19?

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant changes to the industry, including the oil and gas sector. Many oil companies, aiming to protect their workers and minimize the spread of the virus, have implemented strict health and safety protocols. One of the key issues is whether oil rig workers need a permit to leave the rig. This can vary widely depending on the company's policy, location, and the severity of the local restrictions.

Typical Protocols for Departure

Although some companies may require a permit, typical protocols often include a combination of the following measures:

Health Screening

Employees are often required to undergo health screenings both before leaving and upon returning to the rig. These screenings are designed to detect any symptoms or exposure to the virus.

Quarantine Requirements

Depending on local regulations, workers might be required to quarantine if they have been off the rig for an extended period or if they have traveled to areas with high infection rates.

Travel Restrictions

Some regions have travel restrictions that can impact a worker's ability to leave the rig. These restrictions are in place to minimize the risk of introducing the virus onto the platform.

No Need to Pay for Permits

It is crucial to understand that oil rig workers do not need to pay for any permits. Permits and related travel costs are typically not borne by the workers. If someone is asking for money under the guise of obtaining a permit, they are engaging in a scam. As described in the article, these requests are often from scammer teenagers in West Africa. Workers can be assured that legitimate companies and authorities will not ask for payment for such services.

Current Guidelines in the North Sea

As of the current guidelines, North Sea operations adhere to specific protocols. The minimum recommended guidelines can be found on the Oil Gas UK website, which includes:

Self-isolation: Workers are advised to self-isolate before returning to the rig. Temperature checks: Before the helicopter ride, workers undergo temperature checks. Wearing a snood: Helmets or snoods are mandatory during flights for additional protection. Reduced manning levels: Measures are implemented to maintain social distancing and reduce the number of workers on the platform. No shared cabins: Workers are not allowed to share cabins to minimize close contact.

Stricter Company Rules

Some companies have even stricter policies. These include:

Prohibiting any workers from outside the UK from working on installations. Maintaining only UK-based personnel to preserve social distancing on the rig.

These stringent measures are in place to ensure the safety and health of all workers during these challenging times.

Challenges in Crew Changes

The pandemic has made it difficult to change out crews. Some countries have travel bans or restrictions, making it challenging to bring in replacements. As a result, some workers may have to stay on the rig for extended periods, often with well-paid overtime. Additionally, if workers need to travel via a country or state to reach the helipad, a permit may be required, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.

In conclusion, while some companies may have specific permit requirements, oil rig workers generally do not need to pay for any such services, and legitimate companies will not ask for payment to facilitate travel or gain access to the rig.