Offshore workers strike over pay cuts and fire-and-rehire threats at Wood Group

Offshore workers employed by Wood Group have gone on strike across North Sea platforms operated by Harbour Energy, protesting proposed pay cuts and fire-and-rehire tactics. The 48-hour strike is the first in a series of planned actions set to disrupt operations in October and November.

Strike action begins over pay and conditions

Offshore workers employed by Wood Group have launched a 48-hour strike across several North Sea platforms operated by Harbour Energy. The industrial action, which began at midnight, is part of a broader dispute over pay and working conditions, according to BBC News.

The strike affects key platforms, including Britannia, Jasmine, Judy, Lomond, and North Everest. Workers, including production, instrument, and mechanical technicians, are participating in the walkout, which is the first of six planned strike days in October and November.

Unions accuse Wood Group of fire-and-rehire threats

Unions representing the striking workers, including Unite and the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT), have accused Wood Group of threatening to slash pay and conditions. They claim the company has issued fire-and-rehire notices, a tactic that involves dismissing workers and rehiring them on less favourable terms.

Sharon Graham, general secretary of Unite, stated that the union would resist attempts to impose inferior contracts. Vic Fraser, a Unite industrial officer, emphasized that workers are determined to secure a fair deal and avoid exploitative measures.

Eddie Dempsey, general secretary of RMT, announced that the union has instructed its members to refuse overtime from 8 October until further notice, escalating the industrial action.

Company responses and industry context

Wood Group, a major player in the oil and gas sector, has stated that safety remains its top priority during the strike. The company, which was valued at over £5 billion at its peak in 2013 and employed more than 50,000 people worldwide, has not commented directly on the fire-and-rehire allegations.

Harbour Energy, which operates the affected platforms, expressed hope for a constructive resolution to the dispute. The company has not provided further details on how the strike is impacting operations.

What this means

Lazyfounder analysis — our interpretation, not reported fact.

This strike highlights the growing tension between labour unions and energy sector employers over pay and job security. For founders and operators, it underscores the risks of cost-cutting measures like fire-and-rehire, which can escalate into prolonged industrial action, disrupt operations, and damage reputations. While energy companies prioritize safety and stability, the broader implications—such as workforce morale, operational delays, and potential regulatory scrutiny—are worth monitoring. For startups in adjacent sectors, this dispute serves as a reminder of the importance of fair labour practices in maintaining long-term productivity and avoiding costly conflicts.

Key takeaways

• Offshore workers employed by Wood Group have begun a 48-hour strike across North Sea platforms operated by Harbour Energy.
• The strike is part of a broader industrial action plan, with additional strikes scheduled for October and November.
• Unions accuse Wood Group of threatening to slash pay and using fire-and-rehire tactics, which are highly controversial.
• Harbour Energy-operated platforms, including Britannia, Jasmine, and Judy, are affected by the strike.
• Wood Group and Harbour Energy have stated that safety remains their priority amid the dispute.

FAQ

Why are offshore workers striking?

Offshore workers are striking over disputes related to pay cuts and threats of fire-and-rehire tactics, where employers dismiss workers and rehire them on less favourable terms.

Which companies are involved in the dispute?

The strike involves Wood Group, which employs the offshore workers, and Harbour Energy, which operates the affected North Sea platforms.

What is fire-and-rehire?

Fire-and-rehire is a labour practice where employers dismiss employees and offer to rehire them on reduced pay or less favourable contracts. It is highly controversial and often leads to industrial disputes.

How long will the strike last?

The current strike is a 48-hour walkout, but further strikes are planned for October 20-21 and November 3-4, with an overtime ban already in effect.

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