Oil & Gas Hazards: Machine Safety
In the third part of our article series on common oil and gas industry exposures, we’re going to examine how to prevent injuries from commonly used machines. We’ve already covered the basics, including vehicle collisions during extensive commutes, so now we’re going to explore how to identify and prevent machine hazards to reduce injury on the job. Even more importantly, achieve peace of mind with a tailored Santa Fe Oil and Gas Insurance Package.
OSHA states that oil and gas extraction workers may be exposed to a wide variety of rotating wellhead equipment, including top drives and Kelly drives, drawworks, pumps, compressors, catheads, hoist blocks, belt wheels, and conveyors, and might be injured if they are struck by or caught between unguarded machines.
Planning.
Understanding machine and task-specific risks is the first step to mitigating injuries. Identifying possible injuries and implementing solutions can prevent these injuries from occurring in the first place. Therefore, employee training should be required prior to working on the field, even under management supervision.
For a more detailed look at jobsite safety hazards, refer to the Job Safety Analysis Process guide.
Prevention.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as eyewear, gloves, sturdy shoes, and others should be used unanimously. This gear will prevent injury from harsh chemicals, noise, and more.
Next, OSHA recommends establishing practices to address the following risks:
- Confined space; excavations
- Chemical handling; exposure
- Chemical storage
- Electrical work
- Emergency response
- Equipment/machine hazards
- Fall protection
- Fire protection
- Hot work, welding, flame cutting operations
About Daniels Insurance Agency
At Daniels Insurance, Inc., we understand the highly specialized needs of businesses operating in the oil and gas industry. Whether you’re an oil and gas service contractor, an oilfield trucker, or a supplier to the oil and gas industry, our professional team understands the volatile risks involved and has built an all-line solution to address your needs. For more information about how we can provide your business with the protection it needs, contact us today at (855) 565-7616.