CNR International will begin a consultation process with its offshore employees regarding changes to a three on, three off shift rotation in the North Sea.
The company’s move is in line with Apache and Talisman Sinopec who both previously revealed similar plans.
It is understood US firm Marathon Oil is also considering whether to move to the same rotation.
It would mean shifts would go from a two on, three off pattern, to a three weeks on, three weeks off instead.
A spokesman for the company said: “Like all operators in the North Sea, CNR International is looking at ways in which we can improve the efficiency and cost effectiveness of our business, in order that we remain competitive and viable in the basin in the longer term, whilst maintaining our focus on safety, which is a core value.
“The proposed change to our offshore rota is one of several initiatives being undertaken to address this threat. A consultation process with our offshore workforce will shortly commence, where employees will be given the fullest opportunity to express their views.”
Union have warned the change in shift patterns from the current two weeks offshore followed by three weeks of leave to three on, three off will lead to longer hours and compromise safety.
Earlier this week it was revealed that oil workers could be set to down tools as unions move to ballot over possible strike action following changes by other companies to working conditions.
Unite and GMB union members of the Offshore Contractor Association (OCA) will vote on whether to take industrial action after talks with industry bosses in London broke down on Friday.
Contractors refused to negotiate over shift pattern changes from two weeks on/three weeks off to three weeks on/three weeks off and cuts to pension payments, sick pay and holiday leave.
Recommended for you
