Qualifications and Responsibilities of a Paramedic on an Oil Rig

Becoming a paramedic on an oil rig is a challenging yet rewarding career choice. An oil rig paramedic must meet a series of stringent qualifications and demonstrate a high level of expertise and resilience. Here’s what you need to know.

Qualifications Required

1. Certified Paramedic: To begin, candidates must possess a certified paramedic qualification, ideally with some practical experience in a trauma unit. This ensures a solid foundation in emergency medical care and trauma management.

2. Proficiency in Telemetry: This skill is crucial for transmitting real-time data to the emergency room at the receiving hospital. Efficient use of telemetry systems ensures that medical professionals on the rig have the necessary information to make informed decisions quickly.

Job Specific Challenges

Working on an oil rig presents unique challenges that are not typically encountered in a traditional medical setting. Paramedics must be prepared to deliver life-saving care on an unstable and mobile deck. The pitching deck of a crew boat or supply boat with 20-foot seas requires exceptional balance, concentration, and physical fortitude.

Regulatory and Certification Requirements

1. Medical Certificates: The specific certifications required depend on the jurisdiction. For example, in the UK Continental Shelf, a paramedic must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and hold a valid and up-to-date Oil and Gas UK (OGUK) medical certificate. Additionally, a Fit to Train certificate is necessary to ensure that the candidate can safely perform emergency training. These medical certificates often cost between ￡130 and ￡180.

2. Training Certificates: A Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) certificate, including concurrent Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET) and Emergency Breathing System (EBS) training, is also required. This training can cost from ￡600 to ￡1000 in the UK. Training in escape chute operation is also recommended, though it may not be mandatory.

Job Opportunities and Career Pathways

Although the demand for paramedics on oil rigs is high, job opportunities can be difficult to come by. In jurisdictions like the UK, there might only be one medic per platform, and the position is often filled through holiday relief work. To start your career, consider working with nursing agencies that specialize in these roles.

Advancing Your Career: Once established, you might want to look for longer-term contracts or consider becoming a team leader or supervisor, which can offer greater responsibility and opportunities for leadership development.