OILFIELD SAFETY: Inherent Hazards, Effects and Management

Oilfields are deemed to be high risk work environments in terms of health and safety. Workers face more risks on an oil rig than in most other places in the field. Interest in developing stringent regulations and minimum Health and Safety requirements in the offshore oil and gas industry is increasing due to high potential hazards faced when working on an oil rig.

The paper highlights the different concepts of recognizing and abating inherent hazards in the industry, from physical hazards associated to heavy machinery used, to dangerous vapors and gases. It also looks at various strategies used by management to implement safety programmes and audit performance, communication lines, employee training, accident reporting and investigation as well emergency preparedness and response.

The paper is rounded up with health program elements that keep workers in great shape by paying attention to how they approach their work, and recommended exercises which are of high importance due to the physical and mental demands of working in oilfields