How fit do you need to be for BOSIET?

BOSIET training requires a moderate level of physical fitness. You do not need to be an athlete, but you must be able to swim, move through confined spaces, and complete water-based survival exercises. The training involves real physical activity in and around water, so a basic level of health and mobility is essential for both safety and participation.

Before attending, you will also need a valid offshore medical certificate confirming that you are fit to take part. The sections below answer the most common questions about BOSIET fitness requirements in detail.

What physical activities are involved in BOSIET training?

BOSIET training includes a range of hands-on physical exercises that simulate real offshore emergency scenarios. These activities take place both in and out of the water, and they require participants to be reasonably mobile, comfortable in water, and able to follow instructions under mild physical stress.

The core physical activities you can expect during BOSIET include:

• Swimming and treading water while wearing a survival suit
• Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET), which involves being submerged in a simulated helicopter cabin and escaping underwater
• Using an Emergency Breathing System (EBS) underwater
• Boarding and operating life rafts
• Sea survival techniques, including staying afloat and signalling for help
• Fire extinguisher use and basic firefighting exercises
• First aid and manual handling activities

None of these activities require exceptional fitness, but they do demand that you are physically capable of completing them safely. If you have any concerns about a specific exercise, speak to your training provider before the course begins.

Is there a minimum fitness level required for BOSIET?

There is no formal athletic fitness standard for BOSIET, but participants must be medically fit and physically capable of completing the water-based exercises. You should be able to swim at a basic level, move without significant physical limitations, and manage mild exertion in and around water.

The BOSIET physical requirements are designed to reflect real offshore working conditions, not competitive sport. That said, if you have a condition that limits your mobility, breathing, or ability to be submerged in water, this could affect your ability to complete certain exercises. Your offshore medical certificate will help determine whether you are fit to participate.

What medical certificate do you need before attending BOSIET?

Before attending BOSIET training, you must hold a valid offshore medical certificate. In most cases, this means an OGUK (formerly UKOOA) medical certificate or an equivalent recognised standard, depending on your region and employer requirements.

This medical examination is carried out by an approved occupational health physician and assesses your general health, cardiovascular fitness, vision, hearing, and any conditions that could affect your safety offshore. The certificate confirms that you are medically fit for offshore work, which includes completing the physical demands of BOSIET.

Without a valid offshore medical, you will not be permitted to attend the course. Make sure your certificate is current before your booking date, as processing a new medical can take time.

Can you do BOSIET if you can’t swim well?

You need to be able to swim to complete BOSIET training. The course includes water survival exercises that require you to stay afloat, move through water while wearing a survival suit, and escape from a submerged helicopter simulator. These exercises cannot be skipped or replaced.

You do not need to be a strong or competitive swimmer, but you must be able to manage yourself in water with basic confidence. If you are a very weak swimmer or have a fear of water, it is worth addressing this before booking your course. Some training providers can advise on whether your swimming ability is likely to be sufficient based on the specific exercises involved.

Are there age or weight restrictions for BOSIET?

There is no strict upper age limit for BOSIET, but all participants must hold a valid offshore medical certificate, and the medical assessment becomes more thorough as candidates get older. Age-related health conditions that affect cardiovascular function, mobility, or the ability to be submerged underwater may result in a medical being declined or restricted.

Weight restrictions are typically linked to the equipment used during training, particularly the helicopter simulator and survival suits. Most training facilities apply a maximum weight limit, often around 120 to 130 kilograms, though this can vary by provider and equipment. If you are close to or above this range, contact your training provider in advance to confirm whether accommodations can be made.

What should you do to prepare physically before your BOSIET course?

Preparing physically before your BOSIET course improves both your performance and your confidence on the day. While no intensive training is required, taking a few practical steps in the weeks beforehand can make a real difference.

1. Confirm your medical certificate is valid. Book your offshore medical well in advance if yours has expired or is about to expire.
2. Practise swimming if needed. If you have not been in a pool recently, spend a few sessions getting comfortable in water and practising treading water while clothed.
3. Get adequate rest before the course. BOSIET is a multi-day course with physical and mental demands. Arriving well-rested helps you absorb the training and perform safely.
4. Disclose any health conditions. If you have a recent injury, a respiratory condition, or any other health concern, inform your training provider and your medical assessor beforehand.
5. Avoid alcohol the night before. Water-based exercises require full alertness and coordination. Arriving impaired or fatigued puts you and others at risk.
6. Wear comfortable, practical clothing. You will be getting wet. Bring a change of clothes and any personal items recommended by your training provider.

If you are unsure whether you meet the BOSIET health requirements, the best step is to speak with your training provider before booking. They can clarify what to expect and whether any adjustments apply to your situation.

How We Help You Prepare for BOSIET

At FMTC Safety, we make it straightforward to book and complete your BOSIET training, whether you are an individual contractor or part of a larger team. Here is what you can expect when you train with us:

• Practical, experienced instructors who guide you through every physical exercise clearly and safely
• Flexible scheduling with guaranteed course dates, so you can plan around your project timeline
• Free cancellation or rescheduling up to 24 hours before your course starts, giving you peace of mind
• Strategically located training centres near ports, airports, and industry hubs, making it easy to complete your training before heading offshore
• Support before and after booking for any questions about medical requirements, physical preparation, or what to bring

If you are ready to book or want to check upcoming dates, visit our BOSIET course page to find the right option for you. You can also contact our team directly if you have questions about fitness requirements or need advice before enrolling.