A step in the right direction for oil pioneers
Although the decision is an important step on the way, we have not reached our goal!
Press release from NITO.
The Storting has finally decided that the oil pioneers will receive a separate compensation scheme. However, the time horizon is still uncertain, as is who will be covered by the scheme. Although the decision is an important step on the way, we have not reached our goal!
This is about people who worked under weak regulations, poor technical solutions and with inadequate protective equipment. They were exposed to drilling mud and toxic chemicals that led to major health damage, serious illness and death. It was high time that they were heard.
Many have pushed the responsibility ahead of them instead of taking responsibility for ensuring proper compensation for the people who sacrificed life and health for Norway's prosperity. As advocates for a fair and safe working life, NITO stands firm that no one has life or health to lose in their work. This case is about fundamental justice and responsibility for those who built the foundation for Norway's oil adventure.
Kjetil Lein, NITO president.
NITO has always supported a compensation scheme that covers the period up to at least 1995. Then came the SAM Regulations, which provided the basis for a more systematic follow-up of the working environment in the petroleum sector. No one who worked on the offshore installations was guaranteed safe working conditions free of toxic substances in the years up to 1995, which is why we believe that everyone who has worked offshore must be included in the scheme.
It is also crucial that the burden of proof in the event of occupational health injury must be placed on the companies, and not on those who became ill as a result of their work. We therefore recommend that the government go for model four, which is outlined in NOU 2022:19 Oil pioneers - a compensation scheme.
There are still major challenges with compliance with the regulations. NITO will work for necessary improvements, such as strengthening doctors' duty to report, better standards and strengthened supervision of exposed groups.
We are pleased that a compensation scheme has finally been adopted, and ask the Government to speed up the preparation of the scheme's structure so that payments can be made quickly. Unfortunately, for many, it is urgent.
Kjetil Lein, President, Norwegian Association of Engineers and Technologists – NITO.