Working within an oil field operation is a physically demanding and potentially hazardous occupation. Safety is of paramount importance in this environment as preventing accidents and protecting the well-being of all workers matters above all else.
However, a commitment to safety does not mean that accidents won’t happen. Even workers who prioritize safety can be injured and may deserve compensation. Most of the time, the following safety tips for oil rig workers can help to reduce the odds of work-related accidents, but not always.
7 key tips
Every workplace environment is unique, as are the duties and obligations of someone’s specific employment position. That said, these are some general tips that can help most oil field workers to remain safer on the job:
- Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear the appropriate PPE at all times, including helmets, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection and steel-toed boots.
- Understand Fall Protection Tactics: Use fall protection equipment when working at heights. This could include waist harnesses, chest harnesses, ropes, slings, carabiners and safety lines. Secure yourself to prevent falls from platforms, derricks or other elevated areas.
- Equipment Inspection: Regularly inspect and maintain any jobsite equipment and tools. Make sure that these tools and heavy machinery are in good working condition. Report any defects or malfunctions immediately.
- Fire Safety: Follow strict fire safety protocols. Learn the location of any fire exits, fire alarms and equipment like fire extinguishers. Similarly, know the location of other types of emergency response equipment. Be familiar with emergency evacuation procedures and muster points.
- Respect Safety Barriers: Respect safety barriers and marked zones. Stay clear of heavy machinery and equipment in operation.
- Proper Lifting Techniques: Always focus on proper lifting techniques to reduce the odds of serious back injuries. Do not use you back and spine when lifting heavy objects, even if it feels natural. Always use your legs.
- Avoid Fatigue: Oil field work can involve long hours and demanding schedules. Get enough rest and avoid fatigue, which can impair your judgment, leading to poor choices, and which can also impact your reaction times.
Safety always needs to be a focus. Even so, accidents can and do happen. Injured workers should seek legal guidance to better understand their rights and options under the law.