Reducing risks from flammable vapors and heavy machinery

Knowing how to safely use equipment and identify hazards on the oil fields of Texas is essential. Even a small slip-up could cause you serious injuries, but the circumstances that lead to an accident could be beyond your control. The legal team at The Law Offices of Miller & Bicklein, P.C., understand the dangers you face, and how to investigate incidents to determine all the underlying causes.

The National STEPS Network notes that when it comes to fire risk assessments, your employer has a number of responsibilities to ensure that you are safe. Fire risk is particularly high in the oil fields because of the flammability of vapors and the use of machinery that may produce heat or sparks. This includes identifying any areas where vapors may be released, such as flowback and production tanks, wellbore and frac tanks, as well as locations where motorized equipment is necessary, including vehicles. Boundaries should be established wherever possible to keep these two as far apart as possible.

Not only should you be protected by safe practices and procedures, you and everyone around you should be thoroughly trained so that no one creates a risk to others. You should know the meanings of alarms and how to respond, and how to use gas detection devices and the necessary personal protective equipment. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration provides fact sheets and safety resources that your employer should make available for you to review, as well. More information about oil field injuries is available on our webpage.