OFHB
The Operators’ Association for Hyperbaric Lifeboat Preparedness (OFHB) is a non-profit association responsible for ensuring the preparedness to receive and handle hyperbaric lifeboats on the Norwegian Continental Shelf. The association wholly owns NUI AS and coordinates the member companies’ efforts within hyperbaric emergency preparedness and diving-related research. Its members include operating companies such as Equinor, Aker BP, Repsol, Vår Energi, ConocoPhillips, and Gassco, with Subsea 7 and TechnipFMC serving as board observers. Through collaboration and a high level of professional expertise, OFHB helps ensure safer and more efficient offshore emergency preparedness.
News
Starting January 1st, 2026, all applications to OFHB members for funding of diving-related research and development will be reviewed collectively by OFHB.
This new arrangement will spare applicants from having to approach each operator individually. Instead, OFHB members will jointly evaluate the applications and decide whether to finance them collectively or through individual members.
NUI will handle the administrative aspects of the process, but it is important to note that NUI will not be involved in the evaluation of applications. Assessments will be carried out internally by the OFHB board in line with its established guidelines.
Further practical details about the arrangement will be published on www.nui.no in December 2025. In the meantime, questions may be directed to Rolf Røssland at NUI or to OFHB Chair, Pål Atle Solheimsnes (paso@equinor.com).
