For oilfield workers, safety must be paramount. Above all, we must remember that human health comes before all other values. Today, despite advanced technology, oilfield accidents occur frequently. In the last 1 year we have lost 25 oilfield workers to oilfield injuries and hundreds of oilfield workers have been injured and exposed to painful incidents in oilfields.
To minimize oilfield accidents, employers should maximize safety measures and create a completely safe working environment for employees.
In addition to the employer, oilfield workers also need to pay attention. While oilfields are safe, employees must create their own safe environment.
What are the safety precautions that must be followed?
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as hard hats, safety glasses, gloves and steel-toed boots.
- Receive training to prevent accidental operation of equipment.
- Wear fall protection equipment when working at height.
- Be trained in and practice safe lifting techniques when handling heavy objects.
- Learn how to use emergency equipment such as fire extinguishers and first aid kits.
- Memorize and practice all necessary procedures for handling and storing hazardous materials.
- Attend frequent safety trainings, seminars and drills on a regular basis.
- As soon as you recognize any safety hazard, do not ignore it and report it to your supervisors.
The above are just a few of the many safety precautions that oilfield workers must follow. For more information, you can refer to the oil and gas industry Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines.