Covid-19: Update on Expired OGUK Medical Certs
OGUK (Oil & Gas UK) has issued an advisory note to registered examining doctors (20th March 2020) regarding arrangements for managing expiring OGUK medical certificates. Their aim is to reduce the burden on healthcare providers at this difficult time whilst minimising the need for travel and socal contact.
Installation opertors now have the option to accept a normal (addendum 2) OGUK medical certificate which has expired as being valid up to 30th June 2020.
Examining doctors also have the option to extend the validity of a restricted (addendum 3) OGUK medical certificate up to the 30th of June, subject to a “remote” (i.e. not in person) medical assessment.
Please note, you should always verify with the Installation Operator or client that they will accept an expired medical in line with OGUK’s advisory note before travelling to a project.
To stay updated with OGUK’s latest Covid-19 updates, please click here.
Situation with HSE and MCA
In addition to OGUK’s announcement, HSE and MCA have advised that arrangements for expiring statutory medical certification (offshore first aider, diving medical, ENG-1 for seaferers etc.) are also under review to prompte minimum-contact medical assessment and continued emphasis on social distancing.
OPITO Triggers Cert Extension
Along with OGUK, OPITO have also issued an update regarding refresher training for offshore certification.
As a result of the Covid-19 Coronavirus outbreak, OPITO have acknowledged that members of the offshore workforce may be unable to undertake essential refresher training. As a result, important certifcation could expire.
In response to this possibility, OPITO have implemented a certification extension, enabling employers or self-sponsored individuals to apply for an extension to an existing OPITO certificate – on the basis that their certificate is due to expire in the next 30 days.
More on the COVID-19 response (and general information) from OPITO can be accessed by clicking here.
Freelancers aiming to request an extension to a certificate that is due to expire in the next 30 days can do so by clicking here. Please note – you will need a Vantage number in order to proceed with this form.
