The Examination
What does an offshore medical test for?
The OEUK / OGUK assessments last approximately 20 minutes (30 minutes for GWO / RUK) and involves examination of the main systems of the body such as heart, lungs, ENT, neurological and musculoskeletal system.
- Blood Pressure and pulse
- BMI
- Vision
- Hearing test (practical assessment or audiometry)
- Oral Examination
Depending on the type of medical and guidelines at the time, there may also include lung function test (Spirometry or Peak Flow) and a Urine test to screen for diabetes or the presence of blood or protein
If you wear contact lenses, please bring a spare pair, lens solution or glasses as your vision will be tested with and without visual aid.
For the shoulder width measurement you will need to wear a sleeveless top or remove your upper garments. A chaperone can be made available if requested.
If you have any medical conditions, had surgery or take medication, please ensure you advise us in advance of the appointment so that there are no delays in obtaining additional information that may be required before a certificate can be issued.
Additional tests can be undertaken if specifically requested by the employer and only with the consent of the candidate
eg: Urine Drug screen, Audiometry, ECG, Chest X-ray, blood tests
You will need to provide the following:
• Complete a health questionnaire and signed declaration (provided before the examination)
• Photo I.D. (originals only) such as a Passport or Drivers licence.
If the medical is paid for by your employer / agency, the certificate remains their property and will only be issued to you with their express permission
Any price savings when medicals are taken together will only apply if booked and undertaken at the same time. The savings will not apply if booked and undertaken separately.
How long does an offshore medical last for?
The OEUK / OGUK assessments last approximately 20 minutes (30 minutes for GWO / RUK) and involves examination of the main systems of the body such as heart, lungs, ENT, neurological and musculoskeletal system.
- there are findings that need earlier review eg. High BMI, recent onset hearing deficit
- you have a medical condition that is not well controlled eg. Inflammatory Arthritis, Diabetes and Other Endocrine Disorders
- You are on a medication that needs frequent blood monitoring and or dose adjustments eg. Immunosuppressant, DMARD, Hormone Therapy
Ongoing outpatient care usually requires shorter certificates to match the frequency of review
eg. 12 month certificate where review is annual
* where the condition has been well controlled for several years without disease progression or need for medication / dose change, a 2 year certificate may be possible
Cancer Examinees in Remission are issued certificates based on the length of remission and requirements for clinical follow up.
Common Reasons For Fail, Limited Duration or Restriction
At South Tyneside Offshore Medicals, we offer friendly and professional services to help you meet specific medical requirements, from OEUK, RUK and Chester step tests to fit to train and return to work medicals.
Obesity
High BMI can lead to a shorter duration of certificate or failure. For candidates undertaking Chester Step Tests, a very high BMI can make if much harder to pass. Any candidates with a BMI of 40 or more should speak to me before booking.
Dental Problems
An oral examination is an essential part of every Oil and Gas / Renewables Medical. This is to determine the candidate is free from any condition that would suggest risk of pain that may require emergency dental treatment, such as • Bleeding gums or periodontal disease • Broken teeth exposing root canals • Large missing fillings The certificate would be withheld pending a dental opinion +/- treatment with a written report from the dentist.
Other Reasons
Most medical conditions if well controlled, do not pose a risk to Oil and Gas / Renewables work. Some examples that can cause delay or failure if poorly controlled area: • High blood pressure - very high or poorly controlled • Epilepsy - poorly controlled • Diabetes - poorly controlled • Inflammatory Bowel Disease - in acute phase eg. on steroids / antibiotics • acute infection that is not resolved eg. cellulitis, chest infection, flu • Hernia that are non reducible and at high risk of strangulation.
North East Offshore Medicals
We are conveniently located for easy access by car or public transport. We have free parking so you can avoid city centre parking hassles and long wait times. We provide rapid assessments for those in South Tyneside and throughout the North East. Most medical checkups take under 30 minutes. We issue electronic PDF certificates on the spot and offer evening and Saturday appointments.
Book a Consultation
We aim to respond to all enquiries within 48 hours. If you need a quicker response please contact us via phone. 07977462121
FAQs
An offshore medical is a comprehensive health assessment designed to ensure an individual is physically and mentally fit to work in demanding offshore environments, such as oil and gas rigs or Wind Turbines.
An OEUK (Offshore Energies UK) medical is a health assessment for individuals working in the offshore oil, gas, and energy sectors (including wind farms). It was formerly known as the OGUK (Oil and Gas UK) medical.
The most commonly accepted medical is the OEUK + Chester Step Test. Other standards include Renewable UK (RUK) and Energy Institute (EI). If starting in the industry it is best to do a combination of the 3.
The OEUK / OGUK assessments last approximately 20 minutes (30 minutes for GWO / RUK which includes a Chester Step) and involves examination of the main systems of the body such as heart, lungs, ENT, neurological and musculoskeletal system.
Also included are
- Blood Pressure and pulse
- BMI
- Vision
- Hearing test (practical assessment or audiometry)
- Oral Examination
Yes. Unresolved infections can affect your heart rate, blood pressure and make it more difficult to complete a chester step test. You should advise us in advance so we can rearrange your appointment.
It is your responsibility to advise us at the time of booking, any medical conditions, medication, previous surgery or cancer treatment. We can then advise you what information is needed such as most recent hospital letter
Yes. Any current broken teeth, exposed roots or dental infection will require a dental assessment to confirm you are at low risk of needing emergency dental treatment. The dental report is needed before your certificate can be issued.
If your blood pressure reading is too high at the appointment, it is best to arrange an Ambulatory Blood Pressure reading at your local pharmacy or GP practice.