1. This Notice provides guidance for the clear identification of installations as required by the Offshore Installation and Pipeline Works (Management and Administration) Regulations 1995, Regulation 19. Each installation has to be readily identifiable on approach, by sea or air, by the use of unambiguous signage and effective aeronautical communication. This notice should be read in conjunction with Operations Notice 14 Guidance on Coast Protection Act 1949 - Consent to locate and the marking of offshore installations.
2. Helicopter pilots and operators have reported a number of 'wrong rig' landings to the CAA. Instances have occurred when radio call signs, helideck markings and installation side sign identification have been inconsistent. This has led to confusion among pilots in identifying installations and has consequently resulted in potentially serious 'wrong rig' landings.
3. Duty holders should check that the hardware and management systems in place for identification of their installations do not have the potential to cause confusion or ambiguity to any approaching helicopter. It is recommended that, where practicable, the radio call sign, helideck markings and side signage should be identical; helicopter operators should be consulted on their acceptability for flight operations.
4. If the name of the installation changes, the signage and radio call sign should be promptly modified to show this. All interested parties should be informed.
5. It is recommended that duty holders examine new technology available for use in side signage, which offers enhanced visibility (particularly at night) and long component life, eg high intensity lamps.
6. The relevant legal requirements are: Offshore Installations and Pipeline Works (Management and Administration) Regulations 1995, Regulation 12 Communication and Regulation 19 Identification of the offshore installation.
A guide to the Offshore Installations and Pipeline Works (Management and Administration) Regulations 1995 L70 Second edition HSE Books 1995 ISBN 0 7176 2572 9.
Guidance on the marking of offshore installations is contained in: Standard marking schedules for offshore installations. Copies can be obtained from:
Department for Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform,7. Any queries relating to this notice should be addressed to:
Health and Safety Executive
Hazardous Installations Directorate
Offshore Division
Lord Cullen House
Fraser Place
Aberdeen
AB25 3UB
Tel: 01224 252500
Fax: 01224 252648