While the government has many initiatives in place to try and keep all employees safe at work, some industries inherently have more risk than others. The oil and gas extraction and support industries tend to include high-risk activities and environments.
In 2011, more than 450,000 people were employed in these industries, and between 2003 and 2010, 823 workers were killed while at work. The Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries found that workers in these industries had a fatality rate of seven times the national average.
If you are a worker in the oil and gas industry, you will probably want to be aware of the risks associated with your work. Doing so will help you to be more conscious of hazards and exposure prevention. With extensive knowledge about these issues, you will be able to take appropriate action if you do become adversely affected by your working conditions.
What are the most common causes of injuries for oil and gas workers?
Workers in the oil and gas industry are more at risk of being involved in explosions and fires. These can occur without warning and can pose a significant danger. It is vital that oil and gas workers are trained in fire prevention, and there should also be a protocol in place for reacting to explosions or fires.
Additionally, vehicle and machinery accidents are a common cause of injuries and fatalities. Getting caught in machinery can have the potential to cause life-changing injuries. These tragic incidents can also be prevented through adequate training and maintenance of equipment.
Toxic exposure may not often cause immediate injury, but it can lead to chronic health issues and occupational diseases. You should make sure that you are aware of any chemicals that you are at risk of being exposed to in your workplace. You should also question whether any health problems that you have could have been caused or worsened by the toxic chemicals in your working environment.
As an oil and gas worker, you should make sure that you understand your rights regarding making a personal injury claim after a workplace accident. Suffering from injuries can take a toll on finances. Therefore, compensation is vital to ensure that you can move forward with your life.