Here's a worked example calculating the wind loading of Locker heat-shield panels

Effect of Elevation on Wind Velocity

If the wind velocity is only known at a different height to the proposed installation, engineers often use the wind profile power law as a rule-of-thumb for converting wind speeds between two heights:

V2 = V1(H1/H2)^α

Where:

V1 = known wind speed at height H1
V2 = wind speed at desired height H2
α = exponent depending on terrain roughness (also called the wind shear exponent)

Here's a table with multipliers for different heights and wind shear exponents, based on a known windspeed height of 10 metres:

Key Benefits of Wind Shielding for Personnel Bridges

• Up to 75% reduction in wind speed for safer, more comfortable transit
• Protection from rain, snow, and airborne debris
• Improved operability during adverse weather
• Lightweight and quick to install
• Resilient to high wind speeds (up to 120mph)
• Durable construction with stainless steel or coated fabric

The Importance of Wind Shielding in Offshore Environments

Offshore platforms face some of the most extreme weather conditions in industrial operations. Personnel bridges, also known as link bridges or walkways, are vital for safe transit between platform modules, FPSOs, or jack-up rigs. Yet, these exposed structures are highly vulnerable to wind loading, creating hazards ranging from personnel fatigue to structural stress.

Wind shielding is an essential safety measure, designed to reduce wind exposure and increase the safety, efficiency, and well-being of offshore crews.

How Wind Shielding Improves Safety and Performance

Reducing Wind Speeds and Buffeting

High wind speeds on offshore bridges can cause:

• Dangerous slips or trips
• Difficulty carrying tools or equipment
• Risk of wind-lifted clothing impairing vision or balance

Locker’s wind shields—including the Extra Span Shield, Mini Shield, Corrugated Shield and Galebreaker Fabric Wind Shields—use mesh or fabric barriers to deflect airflow, reducing wind speed by up to 75%.

Protection Against Weather and Debris

Shielding also:

• Limits snow and rain build-up on walkways
• Reduces maintenance due to less corrosion from salt spray
• Protects against flying debris during storms

Mini and Fabric Wind-shielding Samples During Testing at 101 mph

Wind Shielding Options from Locker Heatshielding

Rigid Wind Shielding – Stainless Steel Mesh Systems

Extra Span Shields

The Extra Span type windshielding is used as a permanent solution for protection of both personnel and equipment from the harsh weather conditions experienced both onshore and offshore in the oil and gas industry.

Key Features

• Wind efficiency 62% (72% with additional layer)
• Independently tested at wind speeds in excess of 100mph (87knots/h)
• Able to span large distances between supporting steelwork
• All stainless steel type 316L construction
• Ideal for permanent wind and weather protection
• Excellent light transmission and ventilation

Check out our Montrose Stair Tower Project to see Extra Span Wind-Shields providing wind protection of personnel using bridges and stair towers on this platform in the North Sea.

Corrugated Shields

Corrugated wind-shielding panels have a single layer mesh construction which can reduce the wind speed by over 75%

• Wind speed reduction of 75%
• Load tested to represent wind speeds in excess of 140mph
• Able to span large distances between supporting steelwork
• All Stainless Steel type 316L construction
• Ideal for permanent wind and weather protection
• Excellent light transmission and ventilation

Mini Shields

Mini type wind-shielding panels are single layer construction. They are typically used for small panels and complex shapes.

Key Features

• Complex and intricate designs can be accommodated easily
• All stainless steel type 316L construction
• Ideal for permanent wind and weather protection
• Excellent light transmission and ventilation
• Quick onsite installation and removal

Fabric Shields

Galebreaker Industrial Fabric Wind-Shielding

Fabric wind-shielding is custom designed and manufactured in the UK. Panels are able to span lengths of up to 9.1 metres, although an additional skirting feature means panels can be overlapped to form a complete protective wall with no limit for overall width.

Key Features

• Wind, rain and dirt resistant
• Excellent UV resistance
• Proven efficiency: can reduce wind speed by up to 75%
• Fire resistant classification B-s2,d0 to EN 13501-1
• Lightweight, strong and very durable: 1.25 kg/m² total weight including fixings
• Approx. 380 g/m2 weight of material
• Temperature range -30 °C to +70 °C.
• Withstands wind speeds: standard 90 mph, maximum 120 mph (53 m/s)
• Shields can be rolled into bales for easy handling, shipping and storage

Summary: Why Wind Shielding Matters for Offshore Walkways

In challenging offshore environments, wind shielding is not just a comfort upgrade—it’s a critical safety measure that ensures personnel can move freely and safely between platforms. Locker Heatshielding offers both rigid and fabric shielding systems tailored to your operational needs.

FAQ: Wind Shielding for Offshore Personnel Bridges

Q1: How much wind speed reduction can I expect?

A: Locker’s wind shielding can reduce wind speed by up to 75%, depending on the installation and product selected.

Q2: Will shielding affect light transmission or ventilation?

A: No. The mesh and fabric designs are engineered for excellent light transmission and airflow, maintaining a comfortable working environment.

Q3: Can wind shields be retrofitted to existing walkways?

A: Yes, both rigid and fabric systems are modular and can be retrofitted without significant structural changes.

Q4: What materials are used?

A: Shields are built using 316L stainless steel or UV-resistant polyester fabrics with marine-grade fasteners.

Q5: Are these systems compliant with offshore safety standards?

A: All Locker wind shielding systems are tested for thermal and wind loading, meeting rigorous offshore safety requirements.

The Role of Fabric Windshields in the Oil and Gas Industry

Introduction

The offshore oil and gas industry operates in one of the most challenging environments on Earth. With harsh weather conditions, extreme temperatures, and corrosive elements, ensuring the safety and functionality of equipment is paramount. Among the crucial components in this industry are fabric windshields, which play a vital role in protecting personnel and equipment from the elements. In this blog, we'll delve into the significance of fabric windshields and how they are utilised in the offshore oil and gas sector.

Understanding Fabric Windshields

Fabric windshields, also known as windbreaks or windshields, are specialized barriers made from durable materials such as PVC-coated polyester fabric. These windshields are designed to withstand high winds, heavy rain, saltwater exposure, and other environmental challenges commonly encountered offshore. They are typically installed around work areas, equipment, and personnel quarters to provide protection from harsh weather conditions.

Key Applications in the Offshore Industry

1. Helideck Protection: Fabric windshields are often used to shield helidecks on offshore platforms and vessels. Helidecks are crucial for transportation to and from offshore installations, but they are exposed to strong winds and turbulent weather. Fabric windshields create a barrier that reduces wind turbulence, making helicopter landings and takeoffs safer for personnel and equipment.

2. Worksite Enclosures: In offshore construction and maintenance projects, fabric windshields are employed to create enclosed worksites. These enclosures provide a controlled environment where workers can perform tasks without being exposed to adverse weather conditions. Fabric windshields can be quickly installed and dismantled, offering flexibility in adapting to changing project requirements.

3. Equipment Protection: Sensitive equipment onboard offshore platforms and vessels requires protection from the corrosive effects of saltwater spray and extreme weather. Fabric windshields act as protective barriers, shielding equipment from direct exposure to the elements and extending their operational lifespan.

4. Personnel Safety: Ensuring the safety and well-being of personnel working offshore is a top priority. Fabric windshields provide a barrier against harsh winds, driving rain, and sea spray, creating a more comfortable and secure environment for workers during their shifts.

Advantages of Fabric Windshields

• Durability: Fabric windshields are engineered to withstand the rigors of the offshore environment, including UV exposure, saltwater corrosion, and high winds.
• Portability: Unlike rigid structures, fabric windshields are lightweight and portable, allowing for easy transportation and installation at various locations on offshore installations.
• Customisation: Fabric windshields can be tailored to fit specific dimensions and requirements, providing versatile solutions for different offshore applications.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to traditional construction methods, fabric windshields offer a more cost-effective solution for weather protection and site enclosures.

Conclusion

Fabric windshields play a crucial role in enhancing safety, efficiency, and productivity in the offshore oil and gas industry. By providing protection against harsh weather conditions, these specialised barriers contribute to the smooth operation of offshore installations and the well-being of personnel. As technology continues to advance, fabric windshields are expected to evolve further, offering even greater durability, versatility, and performance in the challenging offshore environment.