Offshore staff

OSLO, Norway --Hydro has contracted National Oilwell Norway for two new cranes for the Oseberg field center in the North Sea, with options for a further two.

The four cranes – all replacements for existing systems – will handle lifting operations onboard the Oseberg A and B platforms, and between the platforms and visiting supply boats. They will incorporate a new safety system in accordance with European standards for offshore cranes, which should be safer to operate for personnel both on the fixed installations and on the vessels.

National Oilwell should install the first two cranes in summer 2008, the other two following during 2009-10. Last fall, the company also replaced cranes on Oseberg C.

5/30/2007