OEUK is raising awareness of a new safety policy that has been developed by industry in response to concerns highlighted by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) regarding the limitations of Search and Rescue winching systems. These systems, critical for the rescue of offshore personnel, are designed to safely lift individuals weighing under 124kg (over 19 stone).
The cross-industry policy, effective from November 2026, has been designed to address risks associated with emergency evacuations, rescue procedures, and life-saving equipment. It encompasses marine rescue, lifeboat loading, stretcher rescue, helicopter transport and confined spaces. During the transition phase, operators will continue to address these risks for all offshore personnel across every offshore installation.
The decision to implement a safe weight limit for offshore workers follows extensive review by industry experts over the past two and a half years, during which all possible alternatives to a weight restriction were thoroughly investigated. As no practical solutions were identified, the 124kg limit will be implemented from 1 November 2026. The increase in workforce weight reflects general population trends across the UK.
OEUK has been hosting stakeholder engagement workshops to outline the changes and has developed a full suite of resources to inform and support offshore teams. This includes a workforce video that will be released soon, reflecting the industry’s ongoing commitment to safety communication and education.
Graham Skinner, OEUK’s Health & Safety Manager, said:
'We are committed to ensuring all offshore teams have the information and resources they need to work safely. These new materials, developed in consultation with industry partners and HM Coastguard, underline our focus on creating a robust safety culture across the sector.'
The new policy will be published on 1 November 2025 enabling employers to communicate company-specific information to their employees, provide support and address workforce concerns in advance of the policy coming into effect in November 2026. Throughout 2026, there will be a transition phase aimed at engaging with the workforce, providing medical advice and giving support on healthy eating and weight loss programmes.
To find out more, contact OEUK or visit the website at Safe weight limit policy | Offshore Energies UK (OEUK)
Source: OEUK
