Apache offshore workers back strike threatening North Sea pipelines

More than 160 offshore workers at Apache have backed strike action following a rejected pay offer, a move that trade union Unite warns could disrupt seven North Sea assets. The industrial action, potentially beginning in October, involves technicians and operators associated with the Forties and Beryl oil fields.

Unite stated that disruption to Apache’s Charlie platform could reduce pressure enough to shut down the Forties Pipeline System. This system, operated by Ineos, handles approximately 29% of UK oil and 30% of its gas. A shutdown could impact several major operators, including BP, Harbour Energy, Serica Energy, CNOOC, Adura, and Neo Next+.

The dispute centers on pay, with the union claiming Apache offered anything from a pay freeze to increases below the rate of inflation. Unite officials characterized the company’s behavior as “reckless,” noting that any disruption to the pipeline could severely affect UK fuel supplies and consumers.