The main function of the second group of companies is to assemble 

 or modify products onshore for use in offshore facilities. This diverse 

 grouping including catering services, machine shops, and mud suppliers, 

 require more onshore space for administration, production, receiving and 

 shipping. 



The third grouping includes those firms which do not process 

 products, but rather assemble, store and ship items offshore when needed. 

 These companies, including the supply store and rental tool company, 

 require warehouse space. 



Site Requirements 



For many companies, such as a diving service, a waterfront location 

 with wharf and waterfront space is required. Other companies, such as a 

 rental tool company, can merely locate where they have good access to 

 the waterfront area and support base. Location flexibility is tied to 

 the bulk of items supplied offshore. A company shipping large volumes 

 or bulk items, such as the mud supplier, will locate adjacent to the 

 harbor, with access to rail, road and water transportation, while companies 

 responsible for small component items, such as a catering service, can 

 locate in the general vicinity of the harbor. Other factors, including 

 startup and operating costs, will have a major influence on site selection 

 by these firms. 



Operations 



General shore support companies receive materials destined for 

 offshore facilities, and store and/or modify the materials until they 

 are required offshore. Offshore rigs and platforms have limited storage 

 facilities. Operating characteristics relate closely to services provided, 

 and the total effort needed to make the contracted services and materials 

 available on demand offshore. In general, shore support businesses are 

 similar to a warehouse supporting heavy construction activity, with 

 large supplies of necessary materials stockpiled and most activity 

 associated with moving it or modifying it to meet specific offshore 

 needs. 



Community Effects 



General shore support encompasses a variety of specialized companies 

 serving the offshore industry. Each company will provide a few local 

 employment opportunities, normally in the general labor category [19]. 



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