A FIRM has carried out work for a major offshore energy development.

Specialists at Barrier Group made and fire-proofed 200 protection boxes to house valves and instruments on rig topsides in the Norwegian Sea's Valemon gas field.

The contract, carried out by Barrier's fire protection division, was for international energy firm Statoil, which says the Valemon field could deliver about 26 billion cubic metres of gas.

Wallsend-based Barrier finished the work in just two weeks, half the time normally needed for such a project.

Bosses say Barrier is the only UK maker and supplier of the fire protection box, which has been developed by Norway-based Benarx.

Steve May, Barrier fire protection's managing director, said: “This contract shows how the company and its workers can meet exceptionally tight deadlines without compromising on quality.

“It also strengthens our reputation with overseas companies developing their commitment to safety to meet the latest internationally-recognised standards.”

Founded in 1975, Barrier Group specialises in corrosion and fire protection across offshore, petrochemical and construction projects, employing about 250 workers.

Earlier this year, it took on more workers after winning a deal to provide specialist coatings and scaffolding and insulation for the EnQuest Producer, a 249-metre floating production, storage and offloading vessel.

Barrier was awarded the contract by fellow Wallsend company OGN Group, which is carrying out fabrication services on the vessel.

When finished, the EnQuest will be deployed to the Alma Galia field in the North Sea.