In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, companies have come to recognize the immense value of their committed, productive oil workers. It’s time for oil companies to implement new strategies for upskilling loyal employees, equipping them to meet evolving needs, and prioritizing them for advancement opportunities. Let’s explore which upskilling programs employers can provide—and which could be supported by recruiting companies.
Oil workers undergo three categories of upskilling programs: one mandatory and two others that may vary based on specific company requirements.
- Basic and mandatory licenses and certificates required for oil workers in Saudi, provided by the outsourcing recruiting company in most cases:
In order for them to work in Saudi Arabia, oil workers must obtain specific licenses and certifications to comply with national regulations and industry standards. That include:
- Work permit (Iqama):
All expatriate workers must secure a work permit, Iqama, issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. This permit is essential for legal employment in the Kingdom.
- Safety and technical certifications:
Certifications in areas such as hazardous materials handling, equipment operation, and emergency response are often required for oil workers positions as they’re exposed to a certain level of hazards on a regular basis. These certificates are crucial for ensuring workplace safety and compliance with industry standards, depending on the employer and job function.
- Professional accreditation:
There are certain professions in the oil and gas sector that require professional accreditation, as the Saudi Council of Engineers oversees the registration and classification of engineering professionals, to ensure they meet the necessary qualifications and standards. And the key accreditations include:
- Engineering professionals: A license from the Saudi Council of Engineers (SCE) is required for engineers. That also involves meeting academic qualification, passing relevant examinations, and adhering to the SCE standards set.
- Technical and skilled workers: The technicians and skilled laborers may need certifications pertinent to their trades. Despite not being mandated by a particular licensing body, these certificates are often required by employers to ensure compliance with safety and competency requirements.
- Health, safety, and environment (HSE) roles: Typically, personnel in HSE positions are required to hold certifications such as NEBOSH or OSHA to validate their expertise in maintaining safety standards within the oil and gas sector.
- Specialized positions: Certain roles, like Work Permit Receivers, necessitate specific training and certification. For instance, Saudi Aramco requires Work Permit Receivers to undergo designated training programs to ensure adherence to safety protocols.
- Advanced programs often provided by outsource recruiting companies
Advanced programs for oil workers and employees, either launched in the outsource companies internally, or they select candidates who already hold these certificates. Below are some examples of the frequently required programs.
- Safety and compliance program.
They’re programs that prepare workers for offshore safety protocols, emergency response, and health and safety compliance.
Examples of frequently required programs: BOSIET, or Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training, Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET), and H2S Awareness.
- Industry-standard certifications
Programs that equip workers with the fundamental certifications required to offshore oil rig workers, making sure they meet the industry standards for the operations, and for their own safety.
Examples of frequently required programs: RigPass, IADC WellSharp, and SafeGulf/SafeLand certifications.
- Basic technical training in rig operations
Programs that familiarize workers with standard rig equipment, operations, and terminology to help them understand their roles more effectively.
Examples of frequently required programs: Introduction to Drilling Technology, Rig Floor Operations, and Basic Well Control.
- Environmental and hazard awareness training
They’re the programs that educate workers on environmental regulations, risk assessment procedures, and hazard awareness to support safety and environmental compliance.
Examples of frequently required programs: Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) and Environmental Awareness in Offshore Environments.
- Soft skills training (Optional)
Programs that develop interpersonal skills necessary for a collaborative team of dynamic offshore oil rig workers, especially helpful in high-stress environments.
Examples of frequently required programs: Basic communication, teamwork, and time management skills tailored to offshore work environments.
- Specialized programs that should be provided internally by the employer
It can be considered as part of the onboarding process, your internal programs can focus on the delicate skills required specifically for your operations, particular safety instructions, and specialized competencies tailored to your operations. This will not only enhance their productivity but also increase their loyalty and career satisfaction.
- Advanced technical skills and equipment-specific training
Programs that provide oil workers with deeper knowledge of equipment unique to your rigs and develop specialized technical skills, improving worker efficiency and safety.
Examples of frequently required programs: Training on specific rig equipment (e.g., rotary drilling rigs, blowout preventers), advanced well control techniques, and mud engineering.
- Advanced safety and emergency response drills
Programs that reinforce safety protocols with rigorous emergency response training and scenario-based drills to ensure oil workers are prepared for real-life incidents.
Examples of frequently required programs: In-depth Emergency Response Planning (ERP), Fire Safety, Confined Space Training, and regular safety drills.
- Leadership and supervisory training
Programs that prepare experienced oil workers for leadership roles by developing critical supervisory skills, fostering a culture of accountability, and promoting career advancement.
Examples of frequently required programs: Offshore Supervisory Skills, Crew Management, and Decision-Making under Pressure.
- Digital and technical upskilling (e.g., Automation and Data Analytics)
Programs that equip oil workers with digital skills as the industry moves toward automation, or the company adds a new digital system to its operations, making them adept at using new tools and technologies for operational efficiency.
Examples of frequently required programs: Introduction to rig automation, remote monitoring, digital twin technology, and data analytics for operational insights.
- Continuous safety education and refresher courses
Programs that keep oil workers informed of new safety protocols, regulatory changes, and best practices in offshore operations.
Examples of frequently required programs: Annual safety refreshers, incident analysis workshops, and updates on evolving safety standards.
- Environmental stewardship and sustainability program
Programs that equip oil workers with sustainable practices, compliance with environmental regulations, and reducing the ecological footprint of offshore activities.
Examples of frequently required programs: Environmental compliance, waste management protocols, and training on minimizing environmental impact.
- Wellness and mental health support programs
Programs that address the psychological challenges facing offshore oil rig workers by promoting well-being and providing resources for mental health support.
Examples of frequently required programs: Stress management workshops, mental health awareness, and access to counseling services.
- Career path development and specialized training
Programs that foster long-term career development by offering pathways for growth, improving employee retention, and building a skilled workforce.
Examples of frequently required programs: Structured career progression plans, mentorship programs, and specialized training for roles like drilling engineers or subsea technicians.
Not all programs are a must for every company; requirements vary based on factors like workers’ experience, education, and role flexibility. Each company should assess the essential programs that will boost productivity, enhance worker safety to improve retention, and prolong equipment lifespan.
Looking for hiring the best oil and gas workers in Saudi Arabia?
Today’s focus goes beyond turnover reduction; it’s about building a sustainable workforce, avoiding the endless hiring cycles, and keeping operations running seamlessly without interruption. If you partner with SMASCO for outsourcing oil professionals and workers in many employment levels and various specializations. SMASCO offers tailored solutions, providing your company with skilled professionals across roles and specialties who are prepared to drive immediate growth. Contact SMASCO today.
Sources