Shoulder Width Measurement for Offshore Workers: What You Need to Know
Shoulder width measurement is a required safety assessment for many offshore workers, particularly those traveling by helicopter to offshore installations. While it may appear straightforward, this measurement plays an important role in helicopter seating, evacuation safety, and HUET compliance.
This guide explains what shoulder width measurement is, why it matters offshore, and when re-measurement may be required.
What Is Shoulder Width Measurement?
Shoulder width (also called shoulder breadth) is measured as the horizontal distance across the widest part of the shoulders, typically from the outer edge of one shoulder to the other.
In offshore environments, this measurement is used to assess:
Suitability for helicopter seating
Ability to exit aircraft safely during an emergency
Compliance with offshore aviation safety guidelines
Why Shoulder Width Matters for Offshore and HUET
Offshore helicopters operate within strict cabin and exit-space limitations. During emergency scenarios — including ditching or underwater evacuation — passengers must be able to move quickly through exits without restriction.
If an individual’s shoulder width exceeds certain limits, it may affect:
Assigned seating location
Exit accessibility
Evacuation timing during emergencies
These assessments are designed to reduce evacuation risk and improve overall helicopter safety.
Shoulder Width Thresholds in Offshore Aviation
Industry guidance commonly references 55.9 cm (22 inches) as the threshold at which an individual may be considered extra-broad.
Below 55.9 cm → Standard helicopter seating applies
At or above 55.9 cm → May require seating restrictions or additional review
Workers who measure near this threshold are often flagged for follow-up measurement to ensure ongoing safety and accuracy.
How Often Should Shoulder Width Be Re-Measured?
A frequent question from offshore workers and employers is how often re-measurement is required.
Key points:
There is no universally fixed re-measurement interval solely based on proximity to the threshold
Re-measurement is typically recommended:
During offshore medical or certification renewals
If there has been significant physical change
When required by employer or operator policy
Shoulder Width Measurement at Beeline Clinical
At Beeline Clinical, shoulder width measurement is a service we often offer to individual in the offshore wind, and oil & gas industries.
Our process focuses on:
Consistent measurement technique
Clear explanation of results
Alignment with offshore safety expectations
Transparent guidance if re-measurement is recommended
We aim to ensure workers understand what the measurement means and why it matters, without confusion or ambiguity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is shoulder width measurement required for HUET?
Yes. Shoulder width measurement is commonly required for offshore workers who must complete HUET or helicopter travel as part of their role.
Does being close to the threshold mean I’m unfit for offshore work?
No. Measuring close to the threshold does not automatically disqualify an individual. It may simply indicate the need for monitoring or re-measurement.
Can shoulder width change over time?
Yes. Body composition, posture, and muscle mass can change, which is why re-measurement may be appropriate at certain intervals.
Summary
Shoulder width measurement is a critical but often misunderstood part of offshore safety. When performed correctly and reassessed when appropriate, it helps ensure:
Safe helicopter evacuation
Proper seating assignments
Compliance with offshore aviation standards
For offshore workers, it’s not about passing or failing — it’s about safety, preparedness, and risk reduction.
The Cost of Allergies in the Workplace: How Beeline Clinical Supports Employee Health
Allergy season brings more than just itchy eyes and sneezing—it can significantly impact workplace performance. With over 50 million Americans suffering from allergies annually (Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America), understanding how allergies affect productivity and finding effective solutions is vital for employers and employees alike.
How Allergies Impact Workplace Productivity:
Reduced Productivity: Symptoms like congestion and fatigue lower focus and output.
Increased Absenteeism: Severe allergies often result in missed workdays.
Decreased Job Satisfaction: Chronic discomfort can lead to frustration and burnout.
Higher Stress Levels: Managing symptoms while working heightens workplace stress.
Lower Work Quality: Discomfort can lead to mistakes and reduced efficiency.
Identifying Allergens: Skin Scratch Testing with Beeline Clinical
Allergy skin scratch testing is the gold standard for identifying triggers. Beeline Clinical offers comprehensive environmental panel testing for allergens such as pet dander, pollen, molds, and dust mites. Results are quick, typically within fifteen minutes, helping patients take the next step toward relief.
Effective Treatment: Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) is a convenient, needle-free alternative to allergy shots, offering patients relief with benefits such as:
✅ No Needles: Ideal for patients who prefer non-invasive treatment.
✅ At-Home Convenience: Reduces time off work with at-home dosing.
✅ Lower Side Effects: Reduced risk of severe reactions compared to shots.
✅ Cost-Effective: Minimizes doctor visits, saving on co-pays and travel costs.
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), patients may see symptom improvement within 3–6 months, with significant relief after 1–2 years of treatment.
How Beeline Clinical Supports Employers and Employees:
At Beeline Clinical, we help businesses manage allergy-related productivity loss by offering on-site and remote allergy testing and treatment programs. Our services aim to reduce absenteeism, improve employee well-being, and create healthier workplaces.
Contact Beeline Clinical today to learn more about allergy testing and treatment options for your workforce.
Sources:
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA): Allergy Facts and Figures
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI): Sublingual Immunotherapy
Beeline Clinical: Supporting Offshore Wind Growth with OEUK Medical Exams
As the offshore wind industry expands along the U.S. Northeast coast, a healthy workforce is vital to meeting ambitious renewable energy goals. With projects like New York State's commitment to 9,000 megawatts of offshore wind by 2035, maintaining workforce well-being is essential to achieving a sustainable future.
Beeline Clinical is proud to play a key role in supporting offshore wind projects by providing comprehensive OEUK Medical Exams. Our team, including OEUK-registered physician Jeffrey Vogel, offers both in-clinic and remote OEUK assessments at partner locations across key hubs such as New Bedford, MA, and New York City.
What Are OEUK Medicals and Why Are They Important?
OEUK (Offshore Energies UK) medicals are industry-standard health assessments that determine a worker’s fitness for offshore duties. These exams are crucial for ensuring safety and well-being in demanding offshore environments.
What’s Included in an OEUK Physical?
Health History Review: Screening for medications, allergies, and chronic conditions
Vital Checks: Blood pressure, BMI, pulse, and cardiovascular health
Hearing and Vision Tests: Including audiometry and color vision assessments
Mental Health Evaluation: Screening for fitness to handle offshore stressors
Physical Examination: Conducted by a Beeline Clinical team member
Why Regular OEUK Physicals Matter:
✅ Workforce Safety: Early detection of health issues reduces accident risk
✅ Regulatory Compliance: Meets industry standards for offshore deployment
✅ Mental Well-being: Supports resilience in high-pressure environments
✅ Operational Continuity: Healthy teams drive project success
Why Choose Beeline Clinical for OEUK Exams?
Accessible Northeast Network: Clinics in New Bedford, Massachusetts and New York City
Remote Exams: Virtual consultations with OEUK-certified doctors
Flexible Scheduling: We can typically get patients scheduled within 48/72 hours of inquiry
HIPAA-Compliant: Secure handling of sensitive medical data
Book Your OEUK Medical with Beeline Clinical
At Beeline Clinical, we are committed to supporting offshore wind projects by ensuring a fit and healthy workforce. Whether you need in-person or remote OEUK exams, we simplify the process—so you can focus on building a sustainable future.
Contact Beeline Clinical today to schedule OEUK medicals for your team.
Beeline Clinical: Simplifying OEUK Medicals for Offshore Wind, Oil & Gas Companies.
Beeline Clinical: Powering the offshore wind industry in the northeast with OEUK exams.
Beeline Clinical is proud to offer OEUK medicals (formerly OGUK) for companies in the offshore wind, oil and gas industries. This guide will help you understand:
What an OEUK medical is
How your team can get one
How Beeline Clinical streamlines the process
Understanding OEUK
Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) is a trade association representing the offshore energy industry, including wind, oil, and gas. Established in 1973 as the UK Offshore Operators Association (UKOOA), it rebranded in 2022 from OGUK (Oil & Gas UK) to OEUK to reflect its expanded focus on offshore wind and renewable energy.
What is an OEUK Medical and Why Does It Matter?
An OEUK medical is a health assessment that certifies offshore workers as fit for duty under OEUK standards. Only certified doctors with offshore and occupational health training can issue an OEUK Medical Certificate, which is valid for up to two years.
What Happens During an OEUK Medical Exam?
The assessment covers:
Health History: Screening questionnaire covering medications, allergies, and symptoms
Physical Check: Height, weight, BMI, pulse, and blood pressure
Routine Testing: Urinalysis, hearing (audiometry), and vision (distance, near, and color), spirometry, EKG
Where Are OEUK Medicals Required?
Due to OEUK’s global reputation for safety standards, many companies outside the UK require these medicals. U.S. offshore wind projects, including those off the coasts of New York, New England and the Gulf of Mexico, often adopt OEUK standards for worker health and safety.
Accessing OEUK Medicals in the U.S.
Finding certified OEUK doctors in the U.S. can be a challenge, especially outside of major hubs like Houston, TX. That’s why Beeline Clinical offers solutions in the Northeast, United States that eliminate travel barriers.
Beeline Clinical’s Remote OEUK Medical Solution
With Beeline Clinical’s remote OEUK medical service, your workforce can complete their medical exams locally without needing an on-site OEUK doctor. Here’s how it works:
Local Clinic Visit: Workers complete their required exams at a Beeline partner clinic or, with a local primary care or urgent care.
Virtual Consultation: Dr. Vogel, our OEUK-certified doctor, reviews results and conducts a remote consultation
Certification: The OEUK Medical Certificate is issued digitally
Why Choose Beeline Clinical for OEUK Medical Coordination?
Beeline Clinical has helped clients navigate the complexities of OEUK medicals. We handle everything from scheduling to compliance, ensuring your team stays healthy and project-ready.
✅ Requirement Guidance: Clear understanding of OEUK standards
✅ Nationwide Access: Extensive clinic partnerships for convenience
✅ Consistent Results: Standardized reporting across locations
✅ Secure Data Management: HIPAA and GDPR-compliant storage
✅ Simplified Billing: Single-source invoicing for all services
Streamline Your OEUK Medicals with Beeline Clinical
Let Beeline Clinical manage your OEUK medicals so you can focus on your project. With our experience, network, and commitment to compliance, we’ll ensure your team is ready for offshore deployment.
Get in touch with Beeline Clinical today to schedule your OEUK Medical Physical!