Offshore workers turn to weight-loss jabs to meet helicopter weight rules

Key facts

• New helicopter weight rules for offshore workers come into force on November 5, 2023.
• The limit is 19st 7Ib (124kg) in civilian clothing and footwear.
• Fewer than 250 workers are now over the limit, down from about 2,200.
• On some platforms, 60% of staff have used weight-loss drugs.
• The policy is driven by the lifting capacity of rescue helicopter winches.

Hundreds of offshore workers are using weight-loss jabs to meet new helicopter weight limits for flights to North Sea platforms. The rules, effective November 5, 2023, ban individuals weighing over 19st 7Ib (124kg) in civilian clothing. Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) reported that the number of workers exceeding the limit has fallen from approximately 2,200 to fewer than 250, with 60% of staff on one platform using weight-loss drugs. The policy, driven by the lifting capacity of rescue helicopter winches, aims to ensure safety during emergencies. The RMT union has criticized the policy for a lack of consultation.