Hundreds of North Sea workers too heavy for new helicopter rules
Summary
New safety rules for helicopter travel to North Sea offshore work start in November, setting a maximum weight limit of 124.7 kg for workers in their clothes. Around 800 workers still exceed this limit, which could affect their jobs or lead to alternative roles.Key Facts
- Offshore workers must weigh no more than 124.7 kg (fully clothed) to be safely lifted by Coastguard rescue winches.
- The total allowed rescue helicopter winch load is 249 kg, including the worker, rescuer, stretcher, and equipment.
- Over 2,200 workers were initially above the weight limit; recent data show about 800 still exceed it.
- The new weight rule begins on November 1, 2026.
- Industry studies found offshore workers have gained nearly 10 kg since 2008.
- Workers above the limit cannot get the medical certificate needed for offshore travel.
- Some workers have left the offshore industry or moved to onshore or overseas jobs because of this rule.
- The rule follows a long industry review about safety in emergencies involving helicopter evacuations.
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