More than 160 offshore rig workers are set to walk out in a 24-hour strike from Wednesday, potentially disrupting about 30% of UK oil production via the Forties Pipeline System.
01Summary
- 01Unite union announced on Monday that over 160 offshore workers will strike for 24 hours from Wednesday 6am on five Apache oil platforms linked to the Forties Pipeline System.
- 02The Forties Pipeline System handles about 30% of UK oil production, and Unite claims a halt could cause a sharp drop in pipeline pressure.
- 03A separate 48-hour strike by Wood Group workers contracted to Harbour Energy platforms began on Tuesday, with a further 48-hour strike planned for 3 November.
- 04Apache plans to use experienced contractors to maintain production during the strike and does not expect an impact on other pipeline users.
- 05North Sea oil companies, including Apache and Harbour Energy, have cut UK investment, citing the government's windfall tax and energy policies.
02Why it matters
This matters because industrial action at key North Sea platforms could threaten UK fuel supplies and energy security amid global supply concerns this winter.
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