The oil and gas industry involves varying equipment and materials, leading to many possible workplace hazards. Hence the need for workers to always put on specialized oil and gas clothing.
And not just these specialized oil field gear. There is also a whole lot of required oil and gas workwear and PPE.
Beyond getting yourself protective gear, we believe you should know the reason for prioritizing your protection.
And don’t be too worried. We’ll also inform you about how to get quality oil field coveralls.
Common Hazards in the Oil and Gas Industry
As an oil and gas worker, you’ll probably deal with lots of different equipment and materials. And these involve a lot of potential injury risks.
The truth is, using oil and gas workwear and PPE is recommended as a last line of defense.
Meaning quite a lot of hazards are a result of administrative, vehicular, and equipment-related issues. Let’s take a look at some of these hazards.
Vehicle Crashes
Transporting workers, equipment, and supplies is an important part of the daily activities in the oil and gas industry. Moving to these work sites often involves traveling over long distances.
It exposes workers to the possibility of road vehicle collisions and accidents. So vehicle crashes rank as the leading cause of death among oil and gas workers.
Struck-By / Caught-Between / Caught-In
Just as well, on-site work in the oil and gas industry poses its own set of risks.
Workers face possible hazards that can leave them stuck at the sight of danger. Hence the worker is struck by, caught between, or caught in a hazardous environment.
Some causes are high-pressure lines and equipment, a piece of equipment falling out of place, and possible collision with moving vehicle and equipment.
Explosions and Fires
Any oil and gas worker risks exposure to by-products from oil and gas extraction. Like hydrogen sulfide gas released when working with wells and production equipment.
Not only that, they can be ignited by open flames, energy sources, hot surfaces, or even frictional heat.
With these substances and ignition sources, you face exposure to explosions and fires. Evidently, injuries like skin burns, shocks, and death may occur.
Falls
Elevated equipment such as masts and drilling platforms are vital in petroleum production. These require workers to perform jobs high above the ground.
So, events like slipping, tripping, or falling may occur during work operations.
Confined Spaces
Oil and gas workers carry out some oil and gas operations in very small or tight areas. Storage tanks, previously excavated areas, and mud pits are just a few of them.
Dangers arise in the case of possible asphyxiation. A worker may also face exposure to flammable substances or unhealthy chemicals.
Ergonomic Hazards
Every day, workers lift heavy items, work with heavy loads, and perform repetitively similar tasks. These are regular work operations in the oil and gas industry.
Consequently, there are injury risks related to these strenuous work activities. Possible injuries include sprains and strains.
High-Pressure Lines and Equipment
Pipes containing compressed gases and high-pressure lines pose potential risks to workers. Where gas leaks or line bursts occur, dangerous events like blowouts may occur.
Also, workers may be struck by or caught between falling pipes and lines.
Hazardous Energies
Oil and gas workplaces typically use electrical, hydraulic, chemical, mechanical, and other energy sources. Where there is poor management of these energy sources, problems may arise.
Faulty design, installation, and maintenance of equipment contribute to this. Also, where there’s a lack of adequate operating procedures in place.
Machine Hazards
Petroleum extraction workers make use of a wide range of workplace equipment. Typical examples are pumps, conveyors and belt wheels, and other moving machines.
In the event of faulty machines, workers may sustain injuries when caught between or struck by them.
Improper Planning and Prevention Procedures
Administrative controls and instructions are a crucial part of workplace safety. In a situation where these are not adhered to or absent, workers face potential injury risks.
The situation includes inadequate information about possible hazards and unsafe work practices. The absence of quality PPE, untrained workers, and lack of emergency services are other examples.
How Oil and Gas Clothing Create a Safer Environment
Now, you know the various hazards that oil and gas workers face. So, we cannot overemphasize the importance of protective oil and gas clothing.
So, how does this oil and gas safety work gear make the workplace safer?
Hazard Protection
The essence of oil and gas safety work gear is it protects workers from workplace hazards. For example, oil and gas FR clothing keeps workers safe in the event of explosions and fires.
Offshore waterproof oil and gas clothing keep workers from being wet while at work. In the case of electric arc hazards, flash fire protective clothing is always to the rescue.
Durability and Comfort
Also, oil and gas clothing fabrics are typically tough and durable. Oil and gas PPE suppliers guarantee that you get more value for money with your oilfield work clothes.
These include lightweight oil rig coveralls produced with breathable, non-heavy materials. These ensure all work activities continue in a relatively stress-free and comfortable fashion.
Insulation
In some locations, workers perform their activities outside at extremely low temperatures. That’s why offshore coveralls often have unique designs for added warmth.
These shield workers from potential injuries from cold winds and harsh weather conditions. Meaning you stay warm and safe while working in hostile and harsh environments.
A Quick Oil and Gas Clothing Buyer’s Guide
Essentially, any oil and gas clothing you buy should be of oil and gas PPE standard.
In addition, it must be tested and certified protective clothing for the oil and gas industry.
One major tip: go for experienced oil and gas PPE suppliers.
Make sure you understand the potential risks facing the oil and gas worker. Then, it will be necessary to get the appropriate oilfield PPE.
Also, quality manufacturers always include instructions on how to clean oilfield coveralls.
Finally, make sure the garment is the right fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Q. How Can You Stay Safe in the Oil and Gas Industry?
A. The best possible way to stay safe is to follow the workplace safety regulations. Also, make use of any protective petroleum oilfield workwear provided.
Q. What is the Best Type of Clothing to Wear While Handling Fuel?
A. Standard oilfield FR clothing. This type of oil and gas clothing protects you while handling flammable substances.
Avoid clothing made with nylon, acetate, rayon, and polyester. These fabrics are flammable materials and melt easily.
Q. What Fabric Is Used for Oil and Gas Workwear?
A. Cotton is the most common. Nowadays, though, PPE brands make use of synthetic materials. These include Nomex by Dupont and Ripstop nylon.
Q. What PPE Should Be Used When On the Oil Rig?
A. The typical PPE usually includes protection for the eyes, ears, hands, and feet. A good addition is wearing flame-resistant clothing.
Some areas may require portable monitors to detect hydrogen sulfide (H2S) or other gases.
Q. What Are the HSE Requirements On Oil and Gas Clothing?
A. These are the minimum safety requirements for oil and gas workwear and PPE. These are put in place by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
You can read all about them in this article.
Final Words
Hazards are commonplace in the oil and gas industry. Hence workers need quality oilfield work clothes.
Oil and gas clothing are one of the essential PPE in oil and gas operation. They save lives and keep the workplace protected.
So, next time you’re going to the field, ensure you’re putting on your safety oil rig clothing. Keep yourself and your colleagues safe.
