RBG has won the accolade for technology and innovation at the 14th Offshore Contractors Association (OCA) Challenge Awards.

The awards are designed to recognise and promote the achievements of the OCA member companies and individuals. The finalists were announced last night (28 October) at a ceremony held in Aberdeen.

RBG won the accolade for PlusGuard, an advanced rail system that has revolutionised the use of scaffolding in offshore operations, greatly improving safety whilst simultaneously reducing operating costs and optimising productivity.

The first system of its kind to be used in the North Sea, PlusGard is custom designed for the offshore environment and is able to transform traditional access methods. By providing a dynamic scaffolding enclosure with flexible and easy-to-use telescopic tubes, the system offers a safer working environment for scaffolders operating at height, specifically over a platform’s side or below deck.

As well as improving safety, PlusGard significantly reduces the operating costs associated with scaffolding installation and removal. Whilst traditional ‘over the side’ scaffolding work requires a fast rescue craft to stand-by for potential recovery at sea contingency - at a cost of approximately £8,000 per day – the safe enclosure provided by the PlusGard system eliminates this need.

Dave Workman, RBG chief executive officer said: “This award is a huge achievement for RBG and we are delighted that the industry has recognised the potential in our PlusGuard system.

“The PlusGuard system is not only a significant improvement to the safety of offshore scaffolders but also benefits the efficiency of the job. Traditionally we were only able to erect and dismantle scaffolding when a boat was available to stand by which limited the time we were able to spend on a job, especially in the winter months.”

“With the PlusGard system we are able to work full daylight hours and be less affected by weather conditions.”

Tags: RBG Limited