The role of a painter and blaster has become even more apparent in recent times as the lifetime of offshore assets is being increased. Installations that had been designed to last 50 years are now being extended even further.
Your job as a Painter Blaster is to use abrasive blasting methods to remove existing paintwork and debris then apply new coatings using industrial paint spraying equipment.
This role uses a wide range of specialist equipment whilst working conditions could be cramped or uncomfortable. This work takes place outside in most weather conditions and could be accessed via rope access techniques. You will likely work for specialist companies such as Stork or Bilfinger who provide coating services both onshore and offshore.
Salary and Progression
Offshore painter blasters can expect to start work offshore earning £20,000+, with experience and additional qualifications this can rise to £25,000-£30,000. After a period of time in the industry you can look to take supervisor and coating inspector positions.
Training and Experience Requirements
Companies will look for personnel with relevant onshore or offshore industrial painting experience whilst experience as a general labourer in industrial or construction sectors would also be beneficial.
Training for this kind of role would include:
- OPITO Painter Blaster
- OPITO Fireproofing
- IRATA Rope Access
- ECITB Confined Spaces
In addition, to work offshore, you will require valid basic offshore certificates including:
- BOSIET
- MIST
- CA-EBS
- Shoulder Measurements
- Offshore Medical
It is likely that an employer will ask for other certificates too. It’s always a good idea to look at a range of job posts to identify commonly requested training requirements.
