Several North Sea contractors, including Petrofac, are working together to prevent unskilled workers entering the market, ahead of what is expected to be a challenging shutdown period. The companies have signed a charter setting an improved set of base competency standards for employees. Taking effect in April 2020, the programme aims to standardise requirements across the industry and improve workforce flexibility. In addition, BP has announced that it will invest £1bn over five years into improving its safety culture at offshore drilling sites. Currently, standards differ by operator, creating inefficiencies in the supply chain. The Connected Competence test will allow skilled workers to be passported between projects and help talent retention.
Several North Sea contractors, including Petrofac, are working together to prevent unskilled workers entering the market, ahead of what is expected to be a challenging shutdown period. The companies have signed a charter setting an improved set of base competency standards for employees. Taking effect in April 2020, the programme aims to standardise requirements across the industry and improve workforce flexibility. It is estimated than an additional 4,500 workers may be required during next year’s shutdown period. Currently, standards differ by operator, creating inefficiencies in the supply chain. The Connected Competence test will allow skilled workers to be passported between projects and help talent retention.