HSE Fears - Offshore safety

The HSE has expressed concern over a rise in the number of "dangerous occurrences" on offshore platforms in 2007/08

The Health and Safety Executive has expressed concern over a rise in the number of "dangerous occurrences" on offshore platforms in 2007/08.

During the year, 571 such incidents were reported, 32 more than during 2006/07, and 40 per cent were hydrocarbon releases often regarded as precursors to a major incident. The statistics also revealed an increase in the number of major injuries in the offshore sector, rising from 39 in 2006/07 to 44 in 2007/08.

There were no fatalities in the industry for the first time in three years, but there were 12 deaths in marine operations associated with offshore activities.

Judith Hackitt, Chair of the Health and Safety Executive issued a reminder to the offshore industry: "With the demand for oil and gas so high, it is more important than ever that the offshore industry continues to invest in the sector to protect its workers and puts safety first".

In response to the HSE's fears, Chris Allen, Oil & Gas UK's HSSE director, said: "In striving to further reduce its hydrocarbon releases, the industry will be seeking close engagement with technical staff at HSE to further analyse the releases that have occurred and identify where action should be targeted. The industry will continue to work through Step Change to ensure that the offshore industry has a long, sustainable future, free from major accidents