Work on an oil field can be dangerous. There are a lot of potential hazards for workers to avoid, including electrocution, arc flashing and shocks. With all of this in mind, it’s crucial that oil companies take the proper steps to implement reliable oil field electrical safety practices.
Here are just a few of the steps you can take that will help you avoid some of the biggest causes of explosions on oil fields as well as other electrical issues.
Make sure all workers are properly trained
The types of electrical hazards your workers will face will vary based on the specific kind of work they’re performing. But no matter what, you should make sure only qualified employees work on electrical equipment that is powered. Don’t just go by years of experience in the industry, either—make sure they have the training required for the specific job you’re putting them on, and that they understand all of the safety requirements associated with that kind of work. The workers must have documented proof that they have completed safety training—otherwise, they put themselves and others at risk.
Electrical safety training should be a basic requirement for all electricians and electrical contractors, as well as any instrument technicians, operators or other employees who will turn electrical equipment on or off on an oil field.
Know shock and arc flash hazards and identify them
All workers on an oil field must be trained to identify shock hazards, as well as certain safety issues regarding electricity. They should, for example, know how close they’re able to get to an exposed, energized or possibly energized part before electrocution or other shock injury becomes a possibility.
Overhead power lines are among the most dangerous shock hazards on oil fields. The tall equipment used at these sites can come into contact with power lines if workers aren’t careful, and those lines are likely to be operating at high voltages. If a metal object touches or gets close to a power line, the electricity can flow through the equipment down to the ground.
It’s also important to be on the lookout for potential arc flash hazards. Every day, workers are admitted to a hospital after sustaining burns due to arc flashes. Usually these problems can be prevented with protective equipment. Arc flash is most likely to become an issue at water treatment facilities, well pads and compressor stations.
Wear protective equipment
All workers exposed to potential shock hazards should be provided with personal protective equipment. For example, shock protection equipment like insulating gloves should be chosen based on the level of voltage to which employees will be exposed. Some employees might be required to wear arc flash equipment if arc flash is a danger at a specific job site. Fire-resistant clothing is also required for employees in the oil and gas industry at certain phases of production.
In conclusion, ensuring the safety of workers on an oil field is paramount, especially when it comes to managing electrical hazards. Proper training, awareness of shock and arc flash hazards, and the use of appropriate protective equipment are all critical steps in preventing accidents and maintaining a safe work environment. To ensure your team is fully prepared and compliant with industry standards, consider enrolling them in specialized training courses. Contact MAZECS today to learn more about our comprehensive training programs tailored specifically for the oil and gas industry, focusing on electrical safety and beyond.