What it’s like to be a scaffolder on an oil rig

What it’s like to be a scaffolder on an oil rig

Being a scaffolder on an offshore platform is a challenging job. Offshore platforms, oil platforms, oil rigs or drilling rigs are some of the most challenging and dangerous environments in the world. This is why scaffolders working on oil rigs are highly skilled professionals whose job requires strict adherence to safety standards and the ability to work under pressure and in difficult weather conditions. On top of this, there are shifts lasting several weeks – but in return, a considerable salary is often paid for working on an oil rig.

What is an oil rig or drilling rig?

First of all, a brief explanation of the terminology: what is commonly referred to as an oil rig is understood to mean different facilities.

• The drilling platform or drilling rig in the sea is used to tap an oil or gas deposit off the coast with the help of drilling.
• If no more drilling work is necessary on the gushing oil or gas field, a pure production platform replaces the drilling platform.

In addition to the stationary platforms, which are used in different designs (fixed, floating or anchored), there are also mobile drilling ships that travel from one operational area to the next.

Requirements and qualifications of scaffolders on an offshore platform

The sea is rough, the job is rough: anyone who wants to work on an offshore platform must be robust. A good level of physical fitness and a head for heights are important prerequisites, because not only does the work as a scaffolder require a high level of physical fitness, but also the extreme weather conditions at sea, with storms and wetness. In these conditions, less fit or physically restricted people can experience great difficulty in moving around the platform, regardless of the field of activity. Accordingly, there are also age limits for employees on oil rigs. This is usually 50 years old, but can be higher for non-physical roles.

To become a scaffolder on an oil rig, you will usually need scaffolding training or an equivalent qualification, as well as several years of experience in the scaffolding industry. Furthermore, you must also prove that you are able to work in an isolated and dangerous environment. No one is allowed to work on an offshore station without having completed a safety course.

Since the teams are often made up of different nationalities, a command of English is mandatory. It can also be an advantage to have knowledge of other languages such as Spanish or Portuguese, depending on where the oil rig is located.

A typical working day on an oil rig

Probably the biggest difference between working on an offshore platform and working on land is the shift system. As a rule, operations are divided into twelve-hour shifts – work is carried out around the clock. Since workers are usually transported to the platform by helicopter or ship, the work rhythm is fundamentally different than on land. Depending on the company, for example, you may work for two weeks straight and then get three weeks of paid leave.

Earnings of a scaffolder on an oil rig

Scaffolders on oil rigs can expect high earnings because they are in high demand due to the strict requirements and hazards associated with the work. The exact earnings depend on many factors, such as the employer, experience, and the specific demands of the job.

How to get a job as a scaffolder on an oil rig

To get a job as a scaffolder on an oil rig, it is important to have experience in the scaffolding industry and to have the necessary qualifications. It can also be an advantage to have contacts or to contact recruitment agencies specialising in jobs in the oil and gas industry. Another option is to search on online job sites and apply directly to the relevant companies. However, it is important to note that competition for these jobs is high and that applicants often have to meet very strict requirements.

It can also be beneficial to take further education or specialised training to qualify for certain roles or specialisations required on oil rigs. For example, knowledge of welding or safety at work can help to improve your chances of getting a job.

It is also important to understand the working conditions and demands on the workforce on drilling rigs. This includes being prepared to be away from home and family for long periods of time, as work on oil rigs often involves a long journey and a longer length of stay.

Overall, a career as a scaffolder on an oil rig requires a great deal of commitment, experience and skill. However, with the right qualifications and experience, as well as a willingness to work in an isolated and demanding environment, an interesting and lucrative job can await you.

For more information on scaffolding in the oil and gas industry, click here to download our industry brochure.