The rate of fatality in the oil and gas industry is seven times higher than for employees in any other employment sector. That’s why safety is a huge issue in the field.
Since the oil and gas boom from 2003 to 2013, oil and gas companies have made significant strides in improving workplace safety. Automated technologies and land transportation safety policies have helped decrease fatality rates across the board.
Regardless of these improvements, oil and gas extraction is a dangerous profession. Check out these work safety tips to remain safe on the job.
1. Choose a Safety Program
Employees on a rig need to work together. When choosing a safety program, choose one that emphasizes camaraderie. One employee’s negligence can lead to another employee’s injury or death.
With a safety program that emphasizes open communication, trust, and respect, employees are more likely to help and protect one another daily. This reduces the risk of death or injury.
2. Local Emergency Response Resources
Employers and employees alike should know how to contact the local emergency response services should an emergency arise.
Beyond calling the responders, employers can reach out to these services before an emergency occurs. Responders can visit the job site and be made aware of potential hazards.
Safety emergencies on an oil rig can be detrimental to the local population, and local emergency responders should be interested in helping keep everyone safe.
3. Wear the Right Gear
All employees should know the proper gear they need to wear daily. Supervisors should monitor employees to make sure they comply with these safety regulations.
Things like protective goggles, respiratory protection, facial protection, and gloves help prevent workplace injury or death on an oil rig.
4. Regular Maintenance
Many workplace mishaps can be attributed to failure to maintain equipment. Accidents and injuries resulting from improper handling or maintenance of energized or mechanical equipment can be decreased through proper training as well as regular checkups and maintenance.
Some laws establish how often heavy machinery needs to be inspected and maintained. Failure to do so can lead to fines. If an employee is injured or killed as a result, the company may be found liable for damages in court.
5. Keep Areas Clean
Keep floors, equipment, and work areas clean and free of loose items to prevent trips, falls, and struck-by hazards. Supply spill kits and post clear signage for other emergency and safety equipment so that workers can address hazards quickly.
More Work Safety Tips
These work safety tips are essential to the integrity of the oil and gas extraction industry. These are essential jobs that help society function, and thus, employees need to be protected.
If you’re worried about safety procedures on your job site, bring these concerns and work safety tips to your supervisor.