Granted, there have been accidents, but that is true for almost every industry. However, the offshore oil and gas industry has an overall outstanding safety record and has openings for men and women.
Working for Oil Company vs. Oil & Gas Service Contractor
Different companies have individual plans and ways of doing things. However, there are a number of similarities. First, keep in mind you might be working for an oil and gas exploration and production company. You can also be working for one of the many contractors that provides offshore workers. The situations are a little different, but both have benefits.
Benefits of Working Offshore When Employed by an Oil and Gas Company
• As a rule, you will work either seven or 14 days offshore and have the same number of days onshore.
• On offshore platforms, somebody is working all the time. Thus, many days will be spent working and evenings relaxing and sometimes the other way around.
• Excellent meals are provided at no charge and laundry service is provided. There are entertainment areas, depending upon on the size of the platform ranging, from a television room to pool the table and other types of recreational activities.
• The pay is excellent, since you are usually working 10 to 12-hour shifts, a lot of overtime is involved.
Benefits of Working Offshore When Working For a Contractor
• You may get short notice and as a rule, you will not be spending as many days offshore as a company employee.
• You will get the chance to work on different platforms for numerous companies.
• You get to enjoy the same food provided for other company employees and can use the recreational activities.
• As an employee of a contractor, you will earn a good income, frequently pick up some overtime pay, and know you have work waiting for you when you return home. Just like the oil and gas companies’ employees, the time spent transferring you to and from the offshore is work time for which you are paid.
Safety Comes First
Finally, it is important to know that, safety comes first for the oil and gas companies and their contractors. There are strict safety rules to follow on the platform. There are safety meetings. There are procedures to follow in the event of bad weather. Safety is a top priority in the offshore oil and gas industry.
This type of work is not the best choice for everyone. However, for people who do not mind working in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico and spending up to 14 days away from home at a time, in return for good pay and benefits, offshore work may be an option deserving consideration.