What’s involved in the OGUK medical?
The OGUK medical (Oil and Gas UK medical) is a comprehensive medical examination required for many people working in the oil and gas industry. Whilst some documentation will still refer to these as OGUK medicals, they are now known as OEUK Offshore Energies UK medicals.
Whatever you have heard them referred to as, these medicals are vital for offshore workers as they ensure strict medical standards are met to keep everyone safe in the demanding environment of oil and gas operations.
Due to the nature of the oil and gas industry, workers are often operating in harsh and remote locations, sometimes on unmanned installations, where medical attention may not be easily available. For this reason, it is vital that anyone working in offshore operations has met the minimum medical standards to ensure their safety and that of the people around them.
Typically, the OEUK medical (OGUK medical) will commence with a health questionnaire (usually completed ahead of the appointment) and a consultation with an approved doctor. This will be an opportunity to share medical history, current medication, optical and auditory requirements, all of which may have an impact on the individual’s medical exam results.
After the initial discussion, the doctor will perform a physical examination to assess the individual’s overall health and fitness. This exam will include:
- Height, weight and BMI (body mass index)
- Hearing test
- Sight test – to include colour vision
- Blood pressure
- Lung function tests
- Urine analysis – which may include drug or alcohol screening
The results of the medical will generally be available following the consultation and a certificate will be issued, however in some cases further investigations may be necessary to clarify the findings. This might include blood tests or an ECG (electrocardiograph).
If the individual is going to be working offshore in an unmanned installation, the medical standards required for these roles are stricter than those working in manned operations. This means that anyone with evidence of heart disease, cardiac arrhythmia, diabetes or those taking blood thinning medications, may not be cleared by the doctor, or may require approval from the operators medical advisor each time they mobilise for offshore work.
OEUK medicals (OGUK medicals) are generally valid for 2 years and it is important to retain a copy of the records from each medical examination, as this can help to speed up the process when the renewal medical is due.
Preparing for the OEUK (OGUK Medical)
It can help to save you time on the day, as well as in obtaining your certificate if you can remember to bring a few things with you to your medical appointment. This includes:
- A copy of any pertinent medical records
- Details of any medication you are currently taking
- Prescription details for any eyewear or auditory devices
- Questionnaire – if you have been asked to fill this in beforehand
Book your medical today
To secure your OGUK medical please click here to view our prices and follow the links to book an appointment and we look forward to welcoming you to our centre on the day of your medical.