UNION reps attempted yesterday to push back at the erosion of conditions on dangerous North Sea oil platforms.

GMB and Unite officials were in talks with oil bosses after a series of companies imposed a change in the roster pattern from two weeks on, three weeks off to equal time on and off.

Now workers are expected to clock on for 21 consecutive days — which reps have warned will cause extreme fatigue.

Shop stewards from the unions, which have both already voted for a strike ballot in a consultative vote, are due to meet next week to decide on the way forward.

“Further talks are taking place today with the employers on ongoing issues including the three weeks on, three weeks off work rosters as well as pay and other issues,” said GMB officer David Hulse.

“We are trying to find a way forward in these deadlocked talks.”