Identifying Oil and Gas Industry Hazards
Employees who work in the oil and gas industries are no strangers to risks on the job. While employers work to identify and mitigate these dangers, no one is immune to accidents. The injuries sustained in these fields can be more severe than those of other industries and take longer to recover overall. Therefore, as we explore the common oil and gas sector hazards, achieve peace of mind with a tailored Santa Fe Oil and Gas Insurance Package and work to identify the known risks that your employees face.
Vehicle collisions.
Long hours on the rig and on the road contribute to many accidents each year. As fracking and other daily operations require the transportation of water and materials, oil and gas industry employees are constantly on the road. Exhausted employees and a lack of alertness are common contributors to roadside accidents and also lead to careless mistakes that might have been prevented.
Refer to OSHA’s Motor Vehicle Safety and NIOSH’s Work-Related Roadway Crashes: Prevention Strategies for Employers to ensure you’re following road safety etiquette.
Machine dangers.
Amongst all the industries that use hazardous machines and equipment, the oil and gas industry arguably ranks first. Many of these machines operate in unguarded areas which further endangers the workers using them. This means operations such as traveling derrick, heavy lifts and hoists, spinning chain, loading and unloading materials, and drilling should be conducted with care by competent operators, states Oil Pro.
Awareness of machines, how they operate, and wearing protective gear are essential tips to keep workers safe. Next, employers should be proactive about following OSHA-recommended safety guidelines such as updating equipment as necessary, fixing broken machinery, and applying the necessary safety labels and precautions on each.
Exposure to harsh chemicals.
The article states that any of the drilling and oil processing plants diffuse extremely hazardous chemicals into the atmosphere most of the time. Prolonged exposure to toxic and volatile, chemicals and fumes can cause respiratory as well as major brain problems to the workers. In fact, a common chemical known as Hydrogen Sulfide has been linked to cause leukemia, paralysis, and even death after prolonged exposure.
Ensure your employees are equipped with face masks and other personally protective equipment to mitigate these hazards.
About Daniels Insurance Agency
At Daniels Insurance, Inc., we understand the highly specialized needs of businesses operating in the oil and gas industry. Whether you’re an oil and gas service contractor, an oilfield trucker, or a supplier to the oil and gas industry, our professional team understands the volatile risks involved and has built an all-line solution to address your needs. For more information about how we can provide your business with the protection it needs, contact us today at (855) 565-7616.