I loved his moustache

This show the various versions of "Spar" platforms. Spars have a central chamber in the center that can be raised or lowered by changeing the amount of water in the chamber. Holstein is the largest spar platform in the world.

This shows the progression of Hurricane Katrina in relation to the various platforms in the Gulf of Mexico.

The metal rack that looks like hand holds on the top of the life boat is for pumping water over the exterior of the life boat in the event there is a fire on the water.

The life boats are tested once a year which involves lowering them to the water and then driving them a distance from the platform to test the engines. Apparently they move very slowly so it takes a while to move any distance. Each life boat can hold 89 people. this photo shows the driver.

All of the photos from here on were generously provided by Ross Moriarty, my primary point of contact on the platform.