The Auk Oilfield is situated 249 kilometres (155 mi) east, southeast of Aberdeen, Scotland. It was operated by Shell UK in 50% partnership with ESSO until October 2006 when it was bought by Talisman Energy, and is now licensed by Talisman Energy. It was discovered in October 1970 in a water depth of 182 metres.

13 Talisman Auk north sea oil and gas platform plans drawing

Drawing courtesy of google images

Production started in December 1975 from the Auk 'A' platform. This platform is a steel, 8 legged jacket designed by Shell Oil and constructed at Methyl Fife Scotland. This jacket weighs 3,414 tonnes and support a topside weight of around 8,000 tonnes.

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Helicopter Departures.

15 Aberdeen offshore oil and gas Helicopter taxi for the industry

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Our transport to the platform, ready for action.

17 Hot Work Spark potential permit to work ISSOW Draggar gas monitor meter

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For me to be able to take picture offshore, it is well controlled. Permit to work, and gas tests are required.

18 Talisman Auk platform flare on the pipe deck north sea oil price equal rotation down man redundancies

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Flaring off excess gas.

19 offshore north sea oil and gas workers working hard at the computer in the office

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Our office, where the magic happens.

20 IRATA industrial rope access techniques being used to work at height safely

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Technician climbing to his work front. We use IRATA - industrial rope access techniques and procedures to work at height safely.

21 SKN electrical abseiler working at height IRATA

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SKN electrical technician.

22 Electrical worker repairing a light fitting on an oil rig offshore in the north sea

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Electrical inspections being carried out.

23 Oil and gas workforce on a tea break smoking drinking coffee

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After all that climbing, a cup of tea is required.

24 Auk Oil rig platform Talisman TV lounge workers watching tv

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Off shift movie time.

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40 year old ensuite rooms.

26 Talisman Auk gas rig accommodation room bunk bed north sea oil rig price

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Bunks fit for a king.

A fact which i found funny - The field is named after the Auk a family of sea birds. There is a legend that it was to be called A UK, as the first British oilfield, until somebody realised that the sixth field would be called F UK and Shell's policy was rapidly changed to name their fields after sea birds. Shells sixth UK oilfield is called Fulmar.

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Thanks

Day shift on the ropes.

Talisman 40 year old north sea oil rig - Auk