Helideck & Aviation Obstruction Lighting Guide
Offshore platforms and industrial sites near flight paths need certified helideck and aviation obstruction lighting that meets both hazardous-area (ATEX/IECEx) and aviation (ICAO/CAP437) standards at the same time — a narrower, more specialised requirement than general explosion proof lighting, covered at a basic level in our ATEX lighting guide.
What Is Helideck and Obstruction Lighting?
Obstruction lights mark structures — cranes, flare stacks, platform edges and helidecks — that could pose a hazard to aircraft, using standardised red or white LED lighting recognised under ICAO and, for UK/GCC-influenced projects, CAP437 guidance. On offshore platforms, these fixtures also need ATEX/IECEx certification since they’re installed in or near hazardous process areas.
Common Fixture Types
- Obstruction lights — red or white LED markers for cranes, flare stacks and platform structures. Browse obstruction lights.
- Perimeter lights — mark the edge of the helideck landing circle for pilot reference.
- Windsock and direction indicators — show wind direction for approach and landing.
What to Check Before You Specify
- ICAO/CAP437 compliance — confirm the fixture meets the aviation lighting standard your project references.
- ATEX/IECEx zone rating — required if the fixture is installed in or near a classified hazardous area.
- Colour and intensity — red obstruction lights are standard for structures; helideck perimeter lighting has its own colour and spacing requirements.
- Environmental rating — offshore installations need high IP ratings and corrosion-resistant, marine-grade housings.
Helideck & Obstruction Lighting FAQs
Do offshore obstruction lights need ATEX certification?
Yes, if installed in or near a classified hazardous area on the platform — check your site’s hazardous area classification alongside the aviation lighting requirement.
What colour should obstruction lights be?
Red is standard for most structure obstruction lighting; specific colour and flash pattern requirements depend on the applicable aviation authority guidance for your project.
What is CAP437?
CAP437 is UK CAA guidance widely referenced for offshore helideck design, including lighting, and commonly used as a specification benchmark on GCC offshore projects.
Can you supply a full helideck lighting package?
Contact Daly Middle East with your platform layout and applicable standard, and our team can advise on obstruction, perimeter and windsock lighting together.
Browse our helideck and aviation lighting range or return to the explosion-proof lighting supplier page.