Some medical aspects of North Sea oil industry.

Most illness and injury cases seen in the Sick Bays of North Sea Oil Installations are similar to those in industry generally. Some are due to the sea depth and the hostile environment. The course of treatment may be affected by the isolated situation. The basic plan to meet a disaster situation may in the event be unworkable because of installation air traffic disturbance. Transportation of casualties to pre-arranged destinations may be affected by weather or the availability of suitable helicopters or ships. Practice to meet different medical contingencies is essential. For efficient rescue there must be a reliable, uninterrupted communication system between installation and base.