The oil industry has long been the backbone of many economies around the world. It is a large and complex industry, contributing significantly to GDP growth. But, while the industry has traditionally been a source of tremendous economic benefit, its workers have not always enjoyed the safest working conditions. Thankfully, over the years, advances in technology and improved safety processes have had a positive effect on improving health and safety standards in the oil industry, with tangible benefits being realized for oil industry workers.
One such technology advancement has been the introduction of automated systems for well monitoring and analysis. Previously, workers were required to take readings manually, often in risky or hazardous areas of the rig. With the introduction of sensors, cameras, monitoring devices, and biomarkers, this job has become much less risky, while providing sophisticated real-time data that can be used to analyze and improve safety practices.
Another positive change has been the introduction of stricter regulatory oversight. For example, the US Department of Labor launched the “Prioritize Safety of Oil and Gas Workers” initiative in 2015, requiring oil and gas operators to develop and share safety plans and processes, with operators having to be certified to be eligible for production permits. This has resulted in increased accountability and improved safety conditions in the American oil industry, improved levels of workers being held responsible, and increased protection for workers in hazardous conditions.
Improved training and education processes have also played a role in reducing risks to workers in the oil industry. Companies now provide workers with state-of-the-art training simulations, as well as providing enhanced emergency response training, regular PPE (personal protective equipment) inspections, increased drills and simulations, and ongoing risk monitoring. These new practices and processes have created an environment where workers can be better prepared to respond to any kind of on-site hazard or emergency.
Another positive development is the increased use of technology in risk management. Operators are now using drones to monitor hazards and conditions in areas of the work sites that were previously difficult or dangerous for workers to access. Sensors and data-gathering tools are also being used to network structures, such as tank farms, to report risks and hazards in real time. Such technological advances are not only improving data-driven decision making, but are also decreasing the need for workers to be in potentially hazardous conditions.
The overall trend in the oil industry has been toward improved safety for workers. In addition to the technological, educational, and regulatory advances mentioned above, companies have also increased their focus on job skills and competency-building, risk management processes, incident prevention protocols, and safety culture development and management. All of these elements are resulting in improved workplace safety within the oil industry, and is supporting a positive environment that benefits both the workers and the industry as a whole.