What certificates are needed for offshore oil and gas jobs?

Offshore oil and gas jobs offer exciting opportunities and competitive salaries in a dynamic industry. These roles often involve working on remote platforms and require specialised skills and knowledge to ensure safe and efficient operations.

Obtaining the proper certifications is crucial for securing employment in this field and complying with industry regulations.

API certificates

API certificates are essential credentials for professionals seeking employment in offshore oil and gas industries. These certifications demonstrate proficiency in adhering to industry standards set by the American Petroleum Institute. API offers a range of certifications for individuals working in various roles within the petroleum sector. These include qualifications for inspectors, auditors, and technicians involved in different aspects of oil and gas operations.

Some API certifications include:

• API 570: Piping Inspector
• API 936 Refractory Personnel 
• API 653: Above Ground Storage Tank Inspector
• API 1169: Pipeline Inspector
• API 510: Pressure Vessel inspector

These credentials not only enhance job prospects but also contribute to maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency in offshore operations.

Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET)

BOSIET is a mandatory certification for offshore workers. This course covers vital safety procedures and emergency response techniques specific to offshore environments. Participants learn about helicopter safety, sea survival skills, and fire prevention strategies. The training typically lasts three to four days and includes both theoretical and practical components.

Key elements of BOSIET include:

• Offshore safety regulations and practices
• Emergency first aid
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Lifeboat and life raft deployment
• Escape chute training

Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organisation (OPITO) certification

OPITO is a global leader in offshore oil and gas industry training standards. It provides certifications that are widely recognised and often required for offshore jobs.

OPITO certifications cover various aspects of offshore operations, including safety, emergency response, and technical skills. Many employers in the offshore sector require OPITO certificates as a baseline qualification.

Well control certificate

A well control certificate is an essential qualification for individuals seeking employment in offshore oil and gas operations. This certification demonstrates proficiency in managing wellbore pressures and preventing potentially catastrophic blowouts. The International Well Control Forum (IWCF) and the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC) are the primary organisations that issue these certificates.

They offer various levels of certification, ranging from basic awareness to advanced supervisory roles. Offshore workers typically need to complete a rigorous training programme to obtain a well control certificate. This programme covers topics such as pressure control equipment, well control methods, and emergency procedures.

Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET)

HUET is a critical certification for offshore workers who travel to and from platforms via helicopter. This intensive training prepares individuals for the unlikely event of a helicopter ditching at sea. The course typically lasts one day and involves practical exercises in a specially designed underwater simulator.

Participants learn:

• Pre-flight safety briefings
• Brace positions for impact
• Underwater disorientation coping techniques
• Emergency breathing systems usage
• Evacuation procedures from a submerged aircraft

HUET certification is often integrated with BOSIET or offered as a standalone course. It requires renewal every four years to ensure skills remain current.

City & Guilds international health and safety certificate

The City & Guilds International Health and Safety certificate is a key qualification for professionals in the offshore oil and gas industry, emphasising competence in managing health and safety risks in global settings. Covering risk assessment, incident investigation, and safety management systems, it prepares managers, supervisors, and safety professionals to implement effective health and safety practices.

To earn this certificate, candidates must pass written exams and practical assignments. The certificate is internationally recognised, making it particularly valuable for professionals working on global offshore projects.

International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) certification

IMDG certification is crucial for personnel handling hazardous materials on offshore platforms. This qualification covers the classification, packaging, and transport of dangerous goods by sea. Certified professionals learn proper labelling, documentation, and emergency response procedures. The course typically spans 3-5 days and includes practical exercises.

Topics cover:

• Dangerous goods classes and divisions
• Packing and tank provisions
• Marking and labelling requirements
• Stowage and segregation rules

Upon completion, certificate holders can safely manage dangerous goods transportation, reducing risks and ensuring compliance with international regulations.

Many offshore certificates are transferable to offshore wind, so you may be able to find you are already qualified for opportunities.

Have the certificates?

If you already have, or are working towards these qualifications, Airswift can connect you with global offshore oil and gas jobs. Register for our candidate portal to see current vacancies and sign up for job alerts.