How to Stay Safe in the Oilfield

Working in the oilfield is among the riskiest jobs around. According to OSHA, from 2003 – 2010, 823 oil and gas workers died on the job. This rate is seven times higher than all other industries in the US. Staying safe in the oilfield is a matter of life and death for every worker on a drilling site.

Five Basics on How to Stay Safe in the Oilfield

Every contractor on a drilling site has a responsibility for safety. Oil drilling projects involve high costs, and this puts pressure on the rig Hands to work fast and efficiently. Working on and around a drilling rig involves extended hours, physical labor, working in all weather conditions, and being around dangerous equipment.

Following the Basic Safety Rules

The oil and gas industry takes worker safety seriously. Drilling companies post safety rules at the drill site, so everyone knows what is expected. Workers who do not follow the basic safety rules will quickly find themselves off the site. The basics of every drill site are listed below.

1. Wear protective gear. Hard hats, ear and eye protection, steel-toed boots, and other required clothing must always be worn. Protecting your body is the basics of working on a drill site.
2. Screen all sub-contractors. Any sub-contractor coming on a job site should be checked for necessary safety or protective gear. Truck drivers, welders, and other subs must be briefed on-site safety rules before entering and be held to the same expectations of Rig Hands.
3. Perform safety checks on all equipment. Any worn or broken equipment is a safety hazard. It’s up to everyone on a drill site to test their equipment before using it. Any problems should be immediately reported to the toolpusher, driller, or company man.
4. Do your job. What this means is don’t do work you aren’t trained or qualified to do. Don’t operate equipment you are unfamiliar with. Communicate with your co-workers clearly. Make sure they understand tasks and roles. Speak up if someone is violating safety rules.
5. Hold regular safety reviews. Everyone should be aware of safety policies on a drill site. Everyone should be trained and understand basic first aid practices. Make sure first aid kits are available and stocked with all necessary supplies. Everyone should know where the first aid kits are kept.

Staying Safe in the Oilfield Takes Teamwork

Safety on a drilling site is everyone’s responsibility. Keeping an eye out for each other, and making sure safety policies and work procedures are followed helps everyone do their job and go home. The basic safety tips discussed are just that, the basics. Everyone should practice these and train, so accidents are prevented, and in the event of an emergency, quick, adequate care is given.

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