Through the eyes of an Offshore Installation Manager (OIM), this fly-on-the-wall documentary tells the story of life on the Brent Charlie Shell / Esso oil platform in the North Sea. The journey to work starts with a 170 mile flight from Aberdeen, Scotland, to Sumburgh, Shetland, from which a helicopter takes the crew to the platform. Severe weather conditions often delay the journey to and from Brent Charlie. On the helicopters, the crew wear survival suits in case of an emergency. Once on the platform, the OIM takes charge of the platform and the workers who extract oil and gas from the Brent field 24 hours a day. Brent Charlie is a huge facility with 40 wells that extract oil and gas from its own reservoir. Brent Charlie also collects and pumps oil to the mainland from three other platforms in the Brent field. There are 53 cabins that accommodate 180 workers. A power station generates electricity for the platform, desalinators provide fresh water and a sewage works processes waste. Ships deliver supplies and remove rubbish to avoid pollution. Safety is extremely important. Computers monitor 2,000 key instruments and send the data back to a control centre in Aberdeen. A shutdown could cost millions of pounds in lost production. Radio communications provide a vital link to shore and helicopters and supply ships, as well as within the facility itself. Regular safety drills ensure that the crew know exactly what to do in case of an emergency. The helideck crews also train regularly for emergencies. Department heads report to the OIM each day. The Production Supervisor is in charge of the production processes, such as the gas and oil separators and pumping oil to the mainland. The Toolpusher is in charge of the rig. He ensures that all the drilling operations run safely and efficiently. The Installation Supervisor is the OIMs deputy and is responsible for life support services, such as the delivery of supplies. The Camp Boss reports to the Installation Supervisor. He is in charge of the crew's accommodation, food, laundry, and the cleanliness of the quarters. Meals are the highlight of the day for the crew, and the chefs prepare food of the highest quality. The Medic looks after the welfare of the crew and helps the OIM with his administrative duties. Off duty, the crew pass the time by studying, playing snooker, and keeping fit. The OIMs shift lasts a week, and he then makes the return journey home to his family.
