Safety is the absolute priority in offshore energy. To work on an oil rig, gas platform, or support vessel, you must hold specific, internationally recognized certifications that prove you can handle emergency situations in remote locations.
The Foundation: STCW Basic Safety Training
For those working on vessels supporting the oil and gas industry (such as tankers or FPSOs), the 5-day STCW Basic Safety Training Package is the essential starting point.
- Personal Survival Techniques (PST): Sea survival skills for offshore environments.
- Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting: Advanced fire suppression techniques.
- Elementary First Aid: Life-saving medical response.
- Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities: Onboard safety culture and hierarchy.
- Proficiency in Security Awareness: Essential for vessel and installation security.
Offshore Medicals & Survival
In addition to your safety “tickets,” you will require:
- ENG1 or OEUK Medical: A mandatory fitness-to-work assessment. (Note: New 2026 safety policies include specific weight-to-rescue ratio assessments for helicopter transport).
- BOSIET with CA-EBS: Many operators require the Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (OPITO approved) alongside STCW for helicopter transit to rigs.
- MIST (Minimum Industry Safety Training): A critical requirement for understanding the hazard-heavy environment of an offshore platform.
Specialised Technical Upskilling
Boost your employability in maritime recruitment with these targeted courses:
- RYA VHF Radio: Essential for any crew member involved in communications.
- AEC 1 & 2 (Approved Engine Course): A vital qualification for technical and junior engineering roles on support vessels.
