Tuesday 11 December 2007

Oil & Gas UK's response to OILC's statement on lifeboats on offshore installations

Chris Allen, HSSE director with Oil & Gas UK, said:

"We are obviously aware that tests in the Norwegian sector have shown shortcomings in the performance of some free-fall lifeboats on offshore installations; however we believe that the comments made by the OILC today need to be seen in the correct context as UK operators have already taken action to address these issues.

"The problems identified were with a particular model of free-fall lifeboat not used on any offshore installation in the UK sector. Nevertheless actions were initiated in consultation with HSE to demonstrate that all models and types of free-fall lifeboats used in the UK were fit-for-purpose. As a result operators have already strengthened or replaced lifeboats, or are actively working with manufacturers to identify potential improvements.

"It is important to point out that no lifeboat on any UK offshore installation is regarded as unsafe or unfit-for-purpose. Industry will continue to work closely with the HSE and the lifeboat manufacturers to ensure installation evacuation systems remain safe and effective."

For further information, please contact: Britta Hallbauer Oil & Gas UK Media Relations                       3^rd Floor, the Exchange 2                                           62 Market Street Aberdeen AB11 5PJ                                                      Tel:      07891769113 Fax:     020 7802 2401 Email: bhallbauer@oilandgasuk.co.uk

Oil & Gas UK is the leading representative organisation for the UK offshore oil and gas industry. Its members are licensed by the Government to explore for and produce oil and gas in UK waters and those who form any part of the industrys supply chain. It has 64 members.