The average weight and size of people working in the UK offshore industry has continued to increase since the first issue of the Offshore Information Sheet ‘Big Persons in Lifeboats’ in 2008. There is a significant risk that existing design loads, equipment specifications and space available in Totally Enclosed Motor Propelled Survival Craft (TEMPSC), other lifesaving appliances, and associated emergency equipment may be exceeded in 2025.
On the 9th of September 2025, the Energy Division of the UK Health and Safety Executive published a new Offshore Information Sheet 1/2025, to address the issue of big people in lifeboats and lifesaving appliances. The new OIS updates and replaces OIS 12/2008 which has now been withdrawn from publication.
The new OIS provides guidance for Duty Holders regarding actions and measures to ensure hazards associated with the increasing size and weight of offshore workers are suitably controlled and mitigated.
OEUK commissioned the statistical analysis from subject matter experts CPOGS to provide a baseline for offshore weight calculations. The report should assist offshore Duty Holders to assess the suitability of their lifeboats for their offshore population.
CPOGS engineers have a thorough understanding of the detailed requirements of the new Offshore Information Sheet 1/2025 and have already enabled some of our existing clients achieve 100% compliance with its requirements.
Maintaining compliance with UK regulations for offshore lifeboats and liferafts is essential. We work with operators to ensure their lifesaving appliances are fit for purpose and fully compliant with OIS 1/2025.