• OILC was set up in the aftermath of the Piper Alpha disaster as an ad-hoc committee. It has made a deep and lasting impact on the offshore safety debate and will continue to do so.
  • OILC is an independent trade union, receiving a certificate of independence from the Certification Officer for Trade Unions in 1992.
  • OILC is bound by the legislation and unofficial industrial action is therefore not an option. In any case, offshore workers simply want to get on with their working lives in as safe, fair and rewarding a manner as possible. OILC's continued development and growth is the best assurance that this happens.
  • OILC is the only offshore workers union.

    Why OILC?
    In the 'Public Inquiry into the Piper Alpha Disaster', Lord Cullen said: "The representation of the workforce in regard to safety matters is important not merely for what it achieves on installations but also for the effect which it has on the morale of the workforce - in showing that their views are taken into account and that they are making a worthwhile contribution to their own safety." (Cullen Report: Volume 2 Chapter 21 "The Future Offshore Safety Regime" Para 21.74).

    OILC's primary objective mirrors that of Lord Cullen.

  • OILC represents a vigorous and dynamic self-help organisation, by offshore workers for offshore workers. Respect, or the lack of it, is at the centre of every problem we face. When safety takes second place to costs, the pain stretches far beyond the victims and their families. We have all experienced the ultimate in disrespect. When we are forced into silence for fear of being "run off" and "NRB'd", we are being treated with contempt. We have the right to a say in our own lives and our own industry. We have the right to a safe workplace.

  • OILC is for you if you are a construction/engineering worker, a caterer, a drilling worker; whether you are in production or drilling support services. It makes no difference. If you work on a platform, a semi, a jack-up or a service vessel. You can join. If you are in the industry you are eligible for "the offshore union", whether employed by an operator or by a contractor.

  • Your membership will remain confidential. Only you can decide otherwise. You will decide what action, if any, is necessary to achieve the demands you decide on. And a union that demands respect from the employers must show that respect to its own members. You will have your say. Join the union and cover your mate's back. Let your fellow member cover yours.

  • OILC provides a range of membership benefits second to none. In place from our inception is a comprehensive Free Legal Aid Scheme. You will receive this support in respect of any claim for compensation for industrial injury, disease or death sustained in the course of your employment or any dismissal, redundancy or refusal of employment resulting from membership. In addition, wages, unfair selection for redundancy, or other disputes regarding your Contract of Employment will be pursued.

  • We work in a unique industry with special problems. No one likes to contemplate their own death. Many of us have however, known colleagues and friends who have passed on. The sudden loss of income and support inevitably adds to the distress felt by the family. The union's Death Benefit Scheme entitles members' next of kin to £3,300 paid rapidly to ease the immediate crisis. Members are covered at all times, at work or otherwise, until their 65th birthday.

  • OILC does not, as a matter of policy, amass a large general fund. Nor do we have a political fund, as we are not affiliated to any political party. Once necessary administration costs are covered, income is translated into benefits for members of a quality and substance which is unsurpassed.

  • Blowout - 'The voice of the offshore worker' has been rated by Hull University as the best journal of it's kind in the UK, but it is what the offshore worker thinks that matters. Blowout will continue to represent workers true interests, reporting fearlessly the true offshore story. If you've got something to say contact Blowout@oilc.org and you can read back issues on this web site.

  • Flareoff - Our regular 'irreverent' look at what's happening round the doors of the industry. Like Blowout, everything is generated by offshore workers. Again, available on this web site.

  • Europe - The European Commission invited views from interested parties on whether, and in what form, the working time directive should be extended offshore. The OILC's submission 'The Working Time Directive and the Offshore Worker - all you will ever need to know' was published in 1997, and met with great demand from all quarters as the definitive publication on the subject. Since then we have produced 2 further submissions and produced a CD-ROM packed with information on the subject. We are working tirelessly to ensure that workers are afforded the protection envisaged by the Directive and will not rest until our objective is achieved. See our previous submissions on the papers page, or visit our Health and Safety web site: www.si971.com or contact us for copies of our CD-ROM.

  • OILC continues to participate in important forums and conferences in pursuit of the interests of the offshore workforce at both national and international level.

  • OILC representation is available to all members and it is our aim to provide it not only onshore, but offshore at your worksite. Our network of reps is growing so check the contacts page for more information. Our rep's can provide advice and assistance with employment and health and safety matters, providing a service for you where it's most needed. Perhaps YOU might one-day wish to take up the role? If so, OILC will provide training in the vital areas of Employment Law and health and safety regulation.

    OILC - Of offshore workers, for offshore workers.