The 202m Silja Europa cruise ferry that the project was using for additional accommodation sailed off one or two days ago, and the cyclone-rated Butler Park village was again used as the designated "shelter in place" facility.

The project typically faces up to six cyclones during each cyclone season.

The Construction, Forestry, Mining and Engineering Union revealed photographs of inflatable air beds used at Butler Park and claimed that 1600 workers were "forced to sleep on them" as the cyclone put them at risk, but it is understood that workers only need to sit out a passing cyclone for a few hours.

"There will be some inconveniences as with any significant weather event; however, Chevron Australia places the highest priority on the health and safety of its employees and contractors and has a rigorous cyclone preparation plan in place on Barrow Island," a Chevron spokeswoman said.

"We have purpose-built cyclone-rated accommodation facilities in place at the Gorgon project on Barrow Island."

The cyclone has already passed Barrow Island and is expected to weaken as it continues southwards. Initial reports indicated that Exmouth, the first town hit, had widespread but minor damage.