First Time Working Offshore? Here’s What to Bring with You

If you are embarking to an offshore rig for the first time, you may be wondering what you need to bring with you. Working on a platform is different than most jobs. It requires long hours, intense physical work, and weeks away from friends and family. While most only worry about what to wear on the first day of a job, offshore workers must pack their entire lives into a small bag.

Here are the items that you absolutely must bring on your first day out at sea.

The Right Bag

While a bag may seem like an obvious item, it is being included on this list to remind workers to check with their company about any limitations on bag sizes or weight restrictions.

Work Clothing

Most companies provide personal protective equipment (PPE). However, you still need to bring clothing to wear under your PPE. Some protective equipment that may not be provided by your employer includes hard hats, steel-toe boots, hearing protection, and gloves. Experts recommend wearing flame-resistant clothing under your PPE to help protect you even more from accidents. Finally, don’t forget to bring good socks that will keep your feet dry!

Casual Clothing

Your rig will also be your home. Make sure that you have clothing that is comfortable to wear while you are not working. However, remember that your clothes must go through a boil wash while on the rig so do not bring anything that you do not want to be damaged.

Personal Toiletries

Comfort matters when living offshore. Bringing your soap, toothpaste, deodorant, razors, and other toiletries will make your time offshore as pleasant as possible. Don’t forget to bring a skin moisturizer—your body will thank you after a long day of being exposed to the elements!

Entertainment

Some companies do not allow the use of laptops or tablets on a rig. Verify with your company before bringing one. Other great items to help you pass the time while not working include magazines, books, cards, and different types of games.