Booster platform becomes unmanned

Only one of these, Norpipe 37/4 A, which stands a considerable distance inside the UK sector, was in active use after the pipeline came on line in 1975. This workplace was an outlier in the Ekofisk system, with a helicopter calling only twice a week.

After 12 years, the pumps finally shut down in 1987 and the workforce was withdrawn. Oil transport to Teesside had declined, and an additional boost was no longer required.

To ensure unhindered passage for the pigs used to inspect and clean the pipeline, an additional loop was installed on the platform.

After the crew left, the foghorn and navigation lights were the only active systems left and were run by two new generators. Maintenance visits were made twice a year, while a passing liner reported weekly on whether the navigation system worked.