The oil and gas industry is one of the most profitable yet hazardous industries in the world. Oil companies have many regulations intended to protect their employees.
There are some steps you can take as an employee in this industry to ensure you protect your health.
Drilling hazards
You can get exposed to many health hazards in the oil and gas industry. If you’re working on an offshore oil rig or in a drilling operation that uses hydraulic power tools, you may be exposed to hazardous noise levels over many hours if you don’t take steps to protect your hearing. Your personal protection equipment should include things like earplugs, gloves, and goggles.
Fire hazards
Fire hazards can occur during drilling and production operations. Fires may arise due to equipment malfunctions or human error. Workers must control fires quickly because they can lead to explosions.
Fire is a health hazard in the oil and gas industry that’s sometimes unavoidable.To keep yourself safe during these working conditions, you must invest in fire-resistant clothing for work.
Physical health hazards
Oil and gas workers get exposed to many different health hazards. In addition to the dangers mentioned above, there are also chemical and biological hazards. These can include the following:
- Carbon monoxide: This odorless gas can cause headaches and dizziness at low concentrations and can lead to death in minutes at high concentrations.
- Hydrogen sulfide: This gas smells like rotten eggs or sewage when released into the air, and breathing even small amounts of this poison can lead to severe illness. Exposure to high levels may cause depression of the central nervous system. This results in unconsciousness, comas, or death within seconds due to respiratory paralysis.
- Crystalline silica: It’s harmful to inhale these particles. Some of the health issues associated with exposure to crystalline silica are lung cancer, silicosis, kidney disease, and emphysema.
Even though many hazards exist, you can use many ways to protect yourself, your family, and your community from these dangers. The best way is to learn how to minimize exposure and stay healthy!
