By Sohaib Shams
Offshore workers in the UK are turning to weight-loss injections to keep their jobs ahead of a new 124kg weight limit taking effect in November.
New Safety Rules Take Effect
Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) guidelines require all offshore workers to weigh less than 124kg (19.5st) from November. The limit is based on the maximum weight for helicopter winching during emergency evacuations.
Workforce Slimming Down
Since the policy was announced in 2025, the number of workers exceeding the limit has dropped from about 2,200 to 840 earlier this year. OEUK health and safety leader Graham Skinner said there has been a "wide uptake" of GLP-1 weight-loss jabs, with some employers adding refrigerators to store the medication. However, Skinner emphasized the jabs are one measure among many, not a blanket solution.
Remaining Workers at Risk
An estimated 241 to 300 workers are projected to still be above the limit when the policy takes effect, risking job loss. Skinner said some may have already left offshore roles or could be moved onshore. He stressed the policy is about safety and capability.
Industry Adapted Equipment Previously
In the past, the industry modified safety equipment for larger workers, including larger lifeboats and seating arrangements on helicopters. Skinner said those changes only addressed symptoms, and the weight cap will benefit all life-saving equipment and reduce medical evacuations, which accounted for 78% of medivacs in 2025.
Union Concerns Over Fairness
The RMT union warned the policy could give employers a "convenient mechanism" to dismiss workers without proper redundancy procedures. General secretary Eddie Dempsey called for withdrawal and meaningful consultation to establish a fair, evidence-based approach.
