The Great Importance of Safety on an Oil Rig

Working on an oil rig is dangerous and considered one of the most hazardous occupations in the industrial field. Safety problems, such as falling, slipping, crashing, and fires, can occur at any time. These also remain a few of the top hazards that can arise in an oil rig.

So what should workers know about keeping themselves and others safe before, during, and after their shifts? Understanding the great importance of safety on an oil rig will reduce the risk of danger and give workers peace of mind.

Potential Bodily Injuries

With the various equipment, weather conditions, and preparation made before working, injuries can occur if you don’t consider the necessary precautions. For example, hand injuries make up nearly half of all incidents in the oil industry.

Safety on an oil rig is greatly important because accidents can occur at any time. Situations like crush accidents, lacerations, and abrasions can happen when handling tools like power tongs and drill pipe tongs. Additionally, slips and falls are just a few other hazards that can occur at any time if workers aren’t careful.

Hazard Area Awareness

Everyone working on oil rigs should remain especially aware of dangerous areas during their shift. Equipment like moving machinery, confined space entries, flammable storage areas, and high-pressure valves should always remain labeled.

Additionally, eye washing stations and first-aid kids should remain accessible in prominent places. Communication is vital when it comes to avoiding injuries and preventing confusion. Having an employee fall victim to bodily harm due to being unaware of their surroundings can result from ignorance and remaining uninformed.

Personal Protective Equipment

Having the necessary personal protective equipment can prevent numerous accidents on the job site. Falling from 100 feet isn’t uncommon due to the slipperiness of oil and poor observation. So having the necessary fall protection equipment will keep workers safer at their job. It’s essential to provide fall protection equipment to derrickhands since they work on small, elevated platforms.

Some other pieces of protective equipment include body harnesses, position lanyards, connectors, and anchors. These are crucial for every worker to remain safe. It’s also imperative to have oilfield work gloves that provide protection and increased grip in moist environments. Lastly, hard hats guard workers against falling objects.

Equipment Education and Maintenance

Understanding and maintaining power tools will not only keep workers safer but keep them more informed. It’s a requirement for workers to receive training, implement proper safety techniques, and understand that regular maintenance helps ensure adequate working conditions. Lastly, equipment storage must remain in a secure area to avoid falling or damage.