Fit to Train medicals play an important role in the offshore industry. These assessments are a necessary step in ensuring that individuals are fit to undergo certain training courses.
In this blog post, we will discuss what a Fit to Train medical is, what it involves, how often it is required, and how Express Offshore Medicals North East can help.
Why are Fit to Train medicals needed?
A Fit to Train medical is a health assessment that determines whether a person is physically and medically capable of safely participating in specific types of training.
These assessments are commonly required for intensive training programmes in the offshore oil and gas, wind turbines and marine industries, such as Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET), Further Offshore Emergency Training (FOET) and Helicopter Underwater Safety Training (HUET).
The primary purpose of the medical is to ensure individuals do not pose a danger to themselves or others due to medical conditions.
By identifying potential health issues before training begins, these assessments contribute to a safer working environment and reduce the likelihood of accidents or incidents caused by underlying medical concerns.
Minimising the risk of barotrauma
Offshore work, particularly involving underwater escape training like HUET and Emergency Breathing System (EBS) training, exposes individuals to rapid changes in pressure. This makes minimising the risk of barotrauma a critical aspect of Fit to Train medicals.
Barotrauma occurs when there is a pressure difference between the air spaces inside the body and the surrounding environment, potentially leading to injuries.
EBS training simulates emergency situations where individuals must use breathing apparatus underwater. This training involves controlled ascents and descents, requiring the ability to equalise pressure effectively.
Any pre-existing conditions that affect the ability to equalise pressure can cause serious injury during this training.
- Ear and sinus health
Trainees need clear ear canals and healthy sinuses to equalise pressure effectively. Conditions like ear infections, sinus congestion, or blocked Eustachian tubes can significantly increase the risk of barotrauma.
- Respiratory function
Healthy lung function is essential for managing pressure changes during underwater activities and EBS deployment. Respiratory conditions that affect lung capacity or airflow can increase the likelihood of pulmonary barotrauma.
Minimising barotrauma risk ensures that workers can perform their duties safely and effectively, particularly during emergency situations. A medical assessment prior to EBS training is vital to ensure that individuals are physically capable of handling the pressure changes and stresses involved.
What to expect on a Fit to Train medical
A Fit to Train medical generally includes the following:
Physical assessments
- Ear, nose, and throat check: A visual and physical examination to ensure there are no obstructions, infections, or other abnormalities that could affect your ability to hear, breathe, or communicate effectively.
- Lung function test: This may be included for roles that require a lot of physical exertion or exposure to hazardous environments, and it measures how well your lungs work.
How Express Offshore Medicals can help
At Express Offshore Medicals North East, our goal is to make your Fit to Train medical as smooth and efficient as possible, offering fast, reliable assessments for just £80.
Conveniently located in two locations in Sunderland and Blyth, and with free parking available, we ensure a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
With nearly twenty years of clinical care expertise, we are dedicated to providing professional, cost-effective services that prepare you for the intense training programmes required for offshore work.
If you have any questions or would like to book your medical, get in touch with a member of our team today.
