BOSIET, which stands for Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training, is a mandatory safety course for all personnel intending to work in offshore oil and gas operations. In Malaysia, this training is delivered by OPITO-approved centers and ensures that workers meet international safety standards set by OPITO, the global accrediting body for offshore safety and emergency training. The course typically spans three days and includes both theoretical and practical components.
BOSIET key modules cover offshore hazard awareness, helicopter underwater escape training (HUET) with or without emergency breathing systems, sea survival and first aid, as well as basic firefighting and self-rescue techniques. These modules are designed to prepare workers for emergency scenarios commonly faced in offshore environments. The certification is valid for four years, after which participants must complete a refresher course known as FOET (Further Offshore Emergency Training). In Malaysia, recognized providers of BOSIET training include SEQU Offshore Safety, MSTS Asia, ALAM, and Falcon Safety Services. Completion of this course is a strict requirement before any worker can be mobilized to an offshore facility.
Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training
Why Is BOSIET Training Required in Malaysia?
BOSIET training is required in Malaysia to ensure the safety and preparedness of personnel working in offshore oil and gas operations, which are inherently high-risk environments. The training is mandated by both international standards set by OPITO (Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organization) and local safety regulations applicable to the Malaysian offshore sector. Major industry players such as PETRONAS and Shell Malaysia require all offshore-bound workers to hold a valid BOSIET certificate as a condition for deployment.
This certification equips workers with essential skills in emergency response, survival at sea, and hazard awareness, to minimize incidents and ensuring safe operations. To remain compliant, workers must renew their BOSIET certification every four years by completing a refresher course known as FOET (Further Offshore Emergency Training).
What Does BOSIET Training Cover?
BOSIET (Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training) covers four core modules designed to prepare personnel for emergencies in offshore environments. These modules include helicopter safety and escape procedures, specifically Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET) with or without Emergency Breathing Systems (EBS), sea survival techniques such as life raft deployment and water entry, basic firefighting and self-rescue skills, and emergency first aid.
BOSIET participants engage in practical simulations, including escaping from a submerged helicopter simulator, extinguishing fires in controlled environments, and responding to medical emergencies at sea. The training is conducted in accordance with OPITO standards and is often tailored for tropical conditions in Malaysia through the T-BOSIET (Tropical BOSIET) version, which excludes cold water survival components.
Who Needs BOSIET Certification in Malaysia?
BOSIET certification is mandatory for all personnel who are required to travel to and work on offshore oil and gas installations in Malaysia. This includes offshore workers, contractors, and visitors such as auditors or inspectors. Common roles that require BOSIET certification include engineers, divers, medics, safety officers, and logistics personnel involved in operations on platforms, drilling rigs, and support vessels. The training ensures that all individuals are adequately prepared for emergency situations in high-risk offshore environments.
In Malaysia, OPITO-approved training providers such as Petrofac, MSTS Asia, MISC Maritime Training Academy, and SEQU Offshore Safety offer BOSIET and Tropical BOSIET (T-BOSIET) programs. These providers are located in key oil and gas hubs across the country to ensure accessibility and readiness for offshore deployment, particularly in regions like the South China Sea, Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia.
How Long Does BOSIET Training Take?
The standard BOSIET (Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training) course typically lasts three days. It combines classroom-based theoretical instruction with practical, hands-on drills that simulate real offshore emergency situations, such as helicopter escape, sea survival, and firefighting.
For individuals renewing their certification, a refresher course known as FOET (Further Offshore Emergency Training) is required. FOET is a one-day course, not two days as previously stated, and must be completed before the four-year validity of the original BOSIET certification expires.
In Malaysia, BOSIET and FOET training are offered by OPITO-approved centers located in key regions such as Kuala Lumpur, Johor, Bintulu, and Miri (Sarawak). These centers provide flexible scheduling options to accommodate the needs of offshore personnel and contracting companies.
Where Can You Take BOSIET Training in Malaysia?
In Malaysia, BOSIET training is available at several OPITO-approved training centers located in major oil and gas hubs across the country. These facilities are equipped with realistic training environments, including helicopter underwater escape simulators, wave pools, and smoke-filled chambers to simulate emergency scenarios commonly encountered in offshore operations. Key BOSIET training providers in Malaysia include:
- Petrofac Training Services (Malaysia) – Located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- MSTS Asia – With centers in Johor Bahru and Miri, Sarawak
- MISC Maritime Training Academy – Based in Port Klang, Selangor
- SEQU Offshore Safety – Located in Bintulu, Sarawak
- ALAM (Akademi Laut Malaysia) – Located in Melaka, offering maritime and offshore safety training
These institutions offer both standard BOSIET and Tropical BOSIET (T-BOSIET) courses, depending on the operational requirements of the deploying company.
What Are the Costs of BOSIET Training in Malaysia?
The cost of BOSIET training in Malaysia ranges between MYR 1,850 and MYR 5,000, depending on the training provider, course type (BOSIET vs. T-BOSIET), and whether the Emergency Breathing System (EBS or CA-EBS) is included. These fees cover training materials, use of safety equipment, insurance during training, and issuance of OPITO certification upon successful completion.
Employers in the oil and gas industry usually sponsor their staff for this training as part of compliance and onboarding. However, independent contractors, consultants, or freelance offshore personnel are often responsible for funding their own certification. Prices may vary based on seasonal promotions, additional services, or bundled packages that include medical check-ups or transportation. Below is the typical cost range by provider:
- MSTS Asia – around MYR 2,000 to MYR 2,800
- SEQU Offshore Safety – between MYR 1,850 and MYR 2,500
- Petrofac Training Services – up to MYR 4,000 depending on course modules
- MISC Maritime Training Academy – generally within MYR 3,000 to MYR 5,000
How Does BOSIET Training Improve Offshore Safety?
BOSIET training improve offshore safety by standardizing emergency response procedures for all personnel deployed to oil and gas platforms. The structured program ensures that workers are equipped with the knowledge and practical skills to handle life-threatening situations such as helicopter crashes, platform blowouts, fires, and medical emergencies. By simulating these scenarios in a controlled environment, the training builds confidence and muscle memory, enabling faster, safer reactions during real incidents.
While specific statistics such as a 60% decline in evacuation-related accidents are not publicly documented, Malaysian offshore operators widely acknowledge that OPITO-compliant training has significantly improved emergency readiness and reduced human error in crisis situations. The consistent application of BOSIET standards across the industry helps minimize response time, reduce injuries, and prevent fatalities, contributing to a safer working environment for all offshore personnel.
What Are the Consequences of Non-Compliance with BOSIET Certifications?
Non-compliance with BOSIET certification requirements can result in serious consequences for both workers and employers in Malaysia’s offshore oil and gas industry. Workers without a valid BOSIET or T-BOSIET certificate are not permitted to access offshore installations, and will be denied entry during mobilization or pre-departure checks. This can lead to delays in deployment and loss of employment opportunities, especially for contractors and third-party personnel.
For employers, Malaysian regulatory authorities, such as the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) and PETRONAS Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) units, conduct random audits to ensure that all offshore-bound personnel are properly trained. Companies found deploying uncertified individuals may face operational suspensions, project delays, and financial penalties, although the specific fine of MYR 50,000 is not explicitly defined in current legislation.
In practice, projects may be halted or denied safety clearance until full compliance with training and certification requirements is demonstrated. This enforcement ensures that only properly trained individuals are allowed to work in high-risk offshore environments.
How Does Majikan.my Support BOSIET Training?
Majikan.my connects businesses with OPITO-certified trainers for BOSIET and other safety programs. The platform offers verified provider listings, cost comparisons and enrollment tools. For workforce development solutions, explore Majikan.my to identify training providers, compare programs, and ensure regulatory compliance. The platform also provides salary benchmarks and talent management resources for Malaysia’s energy sector.