Tips
Don't upset the Radio Operator, Medic or Chef! Helicopters, medical
treatment and food are most important to an offshore worker, not
necessarily in that order!
But seriously, as you get your first few trips under your belt you
will have your preferences of what you like to take with you.
Some people take laptop computers, however because bags can get rough
treatment sometimes this is not a recommended item to bring. Many rigs
have their own computers for recreational use. Others take packets of
sweets, books, newspapers, magazines etc.
There are more important things to bring, like your personnel
protective equipment (PPE). However, if directly employed by the rig's
owners, you are likely to be supplied with this when you get to the
rig. You should also bring separate work clothes worn under your
boiler suit as they are washed every day, shoes to wear when you are
going for your mid shift meal and clothes and shoes (most wear
trainers or flip-flops) to wear off shift.
It
is mandatory to take your passport and advisable to take a copy of
your offshore survival certificate and your approved medical
certificate.
Some rigs do not get regular papers, so take a paper or two out with
you every trip, but especially your first. Take three, as you will
instantly make three friends. Keep one for your direct boss. Nobody
will look down on you for this and it will not be seen as crawling or
favouritism, as everyone on the rig will eventually see the papers as
they get passed around.
A
common payment for favours done or to say thank you is to buy a 'can
of coke and a mars bar', rig-code for any bar of chocolate and any can
of soft drink. If you want promotion, keep moving at all times. A
steady pace all day. If you have time for a slack period, grab a tool
or something and walk with it. Don't stand about talking with nothing
in your hands. Every piece of lifting equipment has a colour code on
it, this shows it was tested as safe to use at the last lifting
equipment check. Only items with the current colour code should be
used.
To Bring Or Not To Bring?
What NOT to Bring
The following is only a guide. It is not a comprehensive list.
Lighters
Matches (Safety matches will be provided in smoking areas)
Alcohol
Illegal drugs
Weapons of any description, including knives
Flammable items
Remove batteries from electrical equipment before checking in your
baggage.
Your mobile phone may be taken from you before you board the
helicopter.
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