World Suicide Prevention Day is 10th September 2025. It is estimated that there are currently more than 700,000 suicides per year worldwide, and each suicide profoundly affects many people. A study undertaken by the International SOS Foundation found that a staggering 40% of the offshore and onshore remote rotational workforce surveyed experienced suicidal thoughts some or all of the time whilst on duty.
In conjunction with industry-wide initiatives such as the Mental Health and Well-Being Charter instigated by the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC), a number of training providers, including Petrofac’s Emergency Response and Crisis Management (ERCM) Team has been approved by Public Health Scotland to deliver Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), designed to equip participants with the skills to intervene and help someone at risk of suicide.
Given that offshore workers are estimated to be fifteen times more likely to commit suicide than those onshore, the course is particularly beneficial for those in offshore roles who may interact with people struggling with suicidal thoughts.
Considered the gold standard of suicide intervention training, it focuses on recognising suicide warning signs, developing a joint plan to keep the individual safe, and connecting them with further help. It is delivered via an in-person, two-day interactive workshop, developing skills through observation and supervised simulation in large and small groups.
The next available ASIST course is 21st – 22nd August 2025. No prior experience in mental health or suicide prevention is required. The cost for the course is only £200 per delegate, and spaces are available for immediate booking via the Public Health Scotland Website here.