Oil and Gas Operator Fined £1.4 Million Following Incident on North Sea Platform

An oil and gas operator has been fined £1.4 million after an incident on a North Sea platform endangered the safety of workers, marking another high-profile enforcement action by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The case underscores the heightened focus on safety management within hazardous industries and the serious consequences of lapses.

Details of the Incident

On 17 June 2025, the HSE announced the prosecution of the operator following an event on the offshore platform that exposed workers to significant risk due to inadequate safety controls. The investigation found failings in hazard management and safety procedures that led to the operator being held accountable under the revised Sentencing Council guidelines.

Increased Sentencing for Very Large Organisations

This fine comes shortly after the Sentencing Council’s mid-2025 update to its Health and Safety Definitive Guideline, which calls for tougher penalties, particularly for Very Large Organisations (VLOs) with turnovers well in excess of £50 million. These new guidelines have led to a rise in multi-million-pound fines, reflecting the courts’ emphasis on deterrence and accountability.

Expert Commentary from Ray Palmer, Founder and Managing Director of Ranmoor Health and Safety

Ray Palmer highlights the significance of this case for businesses operating in high-risk sectors:

"The oil and gas industry faces inherent hazards that demand rigorous, proactive safety management. The recent fine against the North Sea operator illustrates that regulatory bodies and courts are taking safety breaches extremely seriously, particularly where worker lives are at stake."

"Organisations must continuously assess their risk controls and emergency procedures. It is not enough to meet minimum legal standards; companies must strive for excellence in safety culture to prevent incidents and avoid catastrophic consequences."

Why Proactive Health and Safety Matters

Failing to adequately manage safety risks in complex environments can lead to devastating human, financial, and reputational costs. Beyond the financial penalties, which can now reach seven figures for VLOs, companies risk:

• Loss of operational licences and project delays

• Increased insurance costs

• Damage to relationships with clients and stakeholders

• Employee distrust and turnover

What Businesses Should Do Now

• Conduct comprehensive risk assessments, focusing on evolving operational risks

• Implement continuous training and emergency drills for all personnel

• Maintain clear and accessible safety documentation

• Engage specialist advisors to review safety management systems and compliance strategies

  
  

Ranmoor Health and Safety: Your Partner in Risk Management

At Ranmoor Health and Safety, we understand the complexities faced by operators in hazardous sectors. Our expert consultancy services help you build resilient safety programmes that protect your workforce and business. From risk audits to bespoke training and compliance support, we guide you every step of the way.

Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can support your organisation in meeting the latest health and safety expectations.