5 Most Common OSHA Violations in the Oil & Gas Industry

The oil and gas business is a dangerous place to work. There are hazardous operations, heavy machinery, and exposure to harmful chemicals. To reduce these risks and keep workers safe, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established many rules and standards designed to address the unique challenges faced by people employed in the oil and gas industry. They are meant to keep workers in every sector safe, from exploration and drilling to refining and transportation.

Why Do OSHA Regulations Matter in the Oil & Gas Industry?

Following OSHA regulations is crucial in the oil and gas industry because a single lapse in safety protocols can have devastating consequences. Workplace accidents can result in severe injuries, deaths, and substantial financial losses for companies. If you were hurt because OSHA standards were violated, your employer could be fined or even sued to recover compensation for your losses for things like:

1. Fall Protection Violations

One of the most common OSHA violations in the oil and gas industry involves inadequate fall protection systems. Workers in this sector often perform tasks at elevated heights, such as on drilling rigs, platforms, and scaffolding.

Without sturdy guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest equipment, workers are at a heightened risk of severe injuries or fatalities from falls. Lack of proper training and fall protection awareness among employees is another factor that contributes to the high rate of incidents.

2. Hazard Communication Violations

The oil and gas industry uses numerous hazardous chemicals, from drilling fluids and lubricants to refinery products. OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard requires employers to properly label and communicate the risks associated with these chemicals to employees. Violations in this area can occur when companies fail to maintain up-to-date safety data sheets, provide adequate labeling, or train workers on interacting with chemical hazards.

Safety data sheets (SDS) provide detailed information on the properties and safe hazard-handling procedures. OSHA requires employers to maintain current SDS for all hazardous materials used in their operations, ensure that employees have access to these documents, and receive training on their contents.

3. Respiratory Protection Violations

Oil and gas workers may be exposed to airborne contaminants, such as hydrogen sulfide and volatile organic compounds. OSHA requires the use of respiratory protection equipment, such as masks, when engineering controls cannot reduce these hazards. Violations can occur when workers are provided with the wrong respirators or when respirators are not properly fitted, maintained, or used.

OSHA mandates that employers establish and implement a respiratory protection program. This program should include procedures for:

Selecting appropriate respirators
Conducting medical evaluations for workers
Fit testing
Proper use and maintenance of respirators
Employee training

Failure to implement the required program can result in violations and put workers at risk of exposure to respiratory hazards.

4. Lockout/Tagout Violations

Workers often interact with complex equipment that involves hazardous energy sources, such as electrical, mechanical, or hydraulic energy. OSHA’s Lockout/Tagout standard requires employers to control and isolate these energy sources during maintenance or servicing.

Effective lockout/tagout procedures are only as strong as the training and awareness provided to employees. OSHA requires employers to train workers on the purpose, procedures, and requirements of the lockout/tagout program. This includes identifying energy sources, proper lockout/tagout techniques, and adhering to established protocols.

5. Powered Industrial Truck Violations

The oil and gas industry heavily relies on powered industrial trucks, such as forklifts, for material handling and transportation. OSHA has specific regulations governing the safe operation of trucks to prevent accidents such as tip-overs, collisions, and struck-by incidents. Violations can occur when operators are not properly trained, vehicles are not maintained in safe working condition, or established safety protocols are not followed.

OSHA requires that all powered industrial truck operators receive training and certification on:

vehicle inspection
safe operation
load handling
emergency procedures

What Happens if Companies Don’t Comply with OSHA Regulations?

Failure to comply with OSHA regulations can have severe legal consequences for companies in the oil and gas industry. Violations can result in substantial fines, legal liability, and potential criminal charges in cases of willful disregard for safety standards.

Companies that consistently violate OSHA regulations may face increased scrutiny, inspections, and reputational damage, which can impact their ability to attract and retain skilled workers and maintain business operations.

What to Do if You’re Hurt Due to an OSHA Violation

If you’re an oil or gas worker hurt because of an OSHA violation, seek medical attention to address your injuries. Next, report the incident to your employer and ensure it’s documented. Gather evidence, including photos, witness statements, and safety reports.

Then, contact a personal injury lawyer who can guide you through filing a claim. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complexities of OSHA regulations, hold the negligent parties accountable, and secure the compensation you need for your recovery.

Call Kemmy Law Firm if An OSHA Violation Hurt You

Worker safety should be the top priority in the oil and gas industry. However, many companies continue to violate OSHA regulations, putting their employees at risk of severe injuries or even death. If you or a loved one has been hurt on the job due to an OSHA violation, you could recover compensation for your injuries.

Don’t let your employer’s disregard for your safety go unchallenged. The experienced personal injury attorneys at Kemmy Law Firm deeply understand OSHA regulations and have a proven track record of holding negligent companies accountable.

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