Although worker safety hazards in the oil and gas extraction industry are well-known, there is very little published data regarding occupational health hazards—such as the types and magnitude of risks for chemical exposures—during oil and gas extraction operations.
Shale gas exploration represents vast economic opportunity and an environmental advantage over other fossil fuel sources. However, the extensive use of horizontal drilling and multi-stage hydraulic fracturing means that there are specific, unique risks involved in this type of drilling that are not present in low-pressure, low-volume drilling.
In the spring of 2021, hackers initiated a ransomware attack against Colonial Pipeline—the largest refined oil products pipeline in the United States.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 500,000 workers are currently employed in the oil and gas extraction industry in the United States, and that number is on the rise as the world’s demand for energy continues to grow. This increase means more risks for well operators as they struggle to keep up with demand. Fortunately, there are many types of coverages available to those in the oil and gas industry to help mitigate these risks.
As OSHA’s National Emphasis Program (NEP) for Heat enters into its second year, it is important to revisit some key takeaways.
Parametric insurance sounds a lot like betting on horses. In betting on horse races, there is a set threshold - the finish line - that must be crossed to trigger a payout. In parametric insurance, there is a threshold that set parameters must cross to trigger payout.
Working on existing wells to restore or increase oil and gas production is an important part of today’s petroleum industry, yet these operations present many occupational hazards for workers. The following list highlights potential hazards and safety solutions to promote a hazard-free work environment.
Even though most uses of asbestos have been banned, it can still be found in a variety of products, such as building materials and vehicle brakes. Employees can be exposed to this hazardous material during the manufacturing process, brake and clutch repairs, and renovations and demolitions.
Tripping refers to the process of removing and/or replacing pipe from the well when it is necessary to change the bit or other piece of the drill string. This process also occurs when preparing to run certain tests in the well bore. To help promote a hazard-free work environment, the following list highlights potential hazards and safety solutions for review.
Amputation injuries frequently occur when workers operate unguarded or inadequately safeguarded machinery, but they can also occur if a worker is simply not paying enough attention or makes a careless mistake. Machine and equipment operators are at risk, but so are other employees in the area if they are not aware of their surroundings.
