North Sea Workers Must Weigh Under 19.5 Stone for New Helicopter Safety Rules

A new safety guideline has been issued for workers operating in environments where winching to a rescue point is required. The regulation stipulates that personnel must not weigh more than 19.5 stone (approximately 123 kg) while fully clothed. The limit is designed to ensure that winch systems can safely lift and transport workers to safety in the event of an emergency.

The rule applies to a range of high‑risk settings, including offshore platforms, tall‑building construction sites, and other locations where rapid evacuation is critical. By capping the maximum weight, the guideline helps maintain the integrity of winch equipment, reduces the risk of mechanical failure, and protects workers from injury during rescue operations. Employers are expected to verify compliance through pre‑deployment weight checks and to adjust protective gear or work assignments accordingly.

In summary, the 19.5‑stone weight cap is a preventive measure aimed at enhancing emergency response effectiveness. Adhering to this standard will help ensure that winch‑based rescue systems remain reliable and that workers can be safely evacuated when needed.