Sick Notes for Newfoundland Offshore Workers
Newfoundland's offshore oil industry (Hibernia, Terra Nova, White Rose, Hebron) employs thousands of workers on rotation schedules. Getting a sick note between rotations or for missed shifts presents unique challenges.
The Offshore Worker's Challenge
- Rotation schedules: 3 weeks on / 3 weeks off (or similar) — clinics aren't designed for this
- Limited days off: You don't want to spend precious shore time in a 4-hour walk-in wait
- Strict attendance policies: Missing a helicopter departure can mean losing an entire rotation
- Safety-sensitive roles: Fitness-to-work documentation often required for return
- Remote home locations: Many offshore workers live in rural NL, far from clinics
When You Need a Sick Note
| Situation | Note Required? | Notes |
|-----------|---------------|-------|
| Missing rotation departure | Yes | Must notify crew coordinator |
| Illness during shore leave | Depends on employer | Check your CA |
| Return after illness | Usually | Fitness-to-work for safety roles |
| Extended absence (2+ rotations) | Yes | Medical certificate + RTW |
| Mental health leave | After 3 days | Confidential |
Operator-Specific Policies
Hibernia (Hibernia Management): Note after 1 missed rotation departure
Terra Nova (Suncor): Note after 2 consecutive missed days on rotation
White Rose (Husky/Cenovus): Note for any missed helicopter departure
Hebron (ExxonMobil): Strict — note for any unscheduled absence
Online Sick Notes: Built for Offshore Schedules
MedLetter works around rotation schedules:
- Submit anytime — 24/7 availability, not limited to clinic hours
- Same-day delivery — get your note before you need to notify your crew coordinator
- $49 flat fee — less than 1 hour of offshore wages
- CPSNL-registered physician — accepted by all operators
- Fitness-to-work language included when needed
Your Rights
- Your operator cannot require you to see a specific physician
- Online/virtual notes are legally identical to in-person
- Your diagnosis is confidential — only dates and fitness to work
- Unifor/union members: check your CA for specific timelines
[Get your sick note →](/intake)