A contractor was working on the skimmer level of an offshore platform (approximately 35' above the water) to wrap a light fixture in preparation of sandblasting operations. He was told by his supervisor in a Safety meeting that morning to use a spider (lifting device), Safety harness and work vest to get to the fixture that extended outward from a walkway. The contractor chose to lean out (see photographed re-enactment) from the walkway and through the handrails instead of using his PPE. While attempting to wrap plastic around the light, the fixture broke off of its' pedestal. The contractor had the majority of his weight shifted outward and, therefore; fell, striking his head on the way down then entering the water unconscious.