Hundreds of workers in the North Sea oil and gas industry are still above the new weight limit for traveling by helicopter offshore, just weeks before the rule comes into effect on 1 November. The new regulation sets a maximum weight of 19st 7lb (124kg) for workers, including their clothing and footwear, to ensure they can be safely winched to safety during emergencies. According to reports, industry body Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) previously estimated that over 2,200 workers exceeded the limit, and recent data suggests up to 800 are still above it. The policy was introduced after a review by industry experts, following warnings from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) that rescue winches—essential during offshore emergencies—cannot safely lift heavier individuals. The maximum safe winch load of 39st (249kg) includes the worker’s maximum clothed weight, the average weight of a rescue worker, a stretcher, and other rescue equipment. OEUK noted that the average weight of offshore workers has increased by nearly 1st 7lb (10kg) since 2008. The new weight limit follows earlier rules that restricted workers with a shoulder width of 22in (56cm) or more to specific helicopter seats to ensure they could escape in an emergency. Updated figures from OEUK show about 3.4% of offshore workers weigh more than 124kg, a decrease from an estimated 4.7% in 2022. These figures are based on more than 35,000 records of offshore travelers collected between April and August. Some workers have left the offshore industry rather than lose weight, while others are exploring weight loss injections or seeking roles onshore. An occupational health expert warned that some individuals are attempting to lose weight too quickly through fasting, a method that is not sustainable. He emphasized that there are solutions available and encouraged workers not to lose hope. Meanwhile, an employment law specialist advised companies to consider alternative roles for workers who cannot meet the weight requirement, rather than terminating their employment. He noted that both companies and employees have a two-month window to take action before the new policy is fully implemented. OEUK reported that the affected workforce is working hard to meet the new limit, with between 500 and 800 workers still needing to lose weight. The health, safety, and security manager at OEUK stressed that the policy is in place to ensure workers can be rescued in emergencies. He urged those who have not yet started their weight loss journey to begin immediately, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the new guidelines for safety reasons.