Working on offshore oil rigs can be an exciting prospect for many people, especially as the jobs often involve good pay and lots of travel. However, potential oil rig workers must be aware of the dangers that accompany travel and payments. This type of work tends to be quite stressful and physically demanding. The conditions on an oil rig are typically dangerous. Employees attracted to these particular types of jobs offer opportunities for the inexperienced; they must consider their ability to work under such difficult circumstances. This is why condition monitoring services are important in oil and gas.

What is expected of an offshore worker on an oil rig?

Depending on the type of work an individual is doing, they can expect to work a few 12-hour shifts a day. Most companies operate on rotational shifts, but it's important to note that many teams stay on-site for two weeks before receiving a two-week vacation. These prolonged hours are not preferable for some, especially for beginning workers who are not used to such strenuous work.

A variety of jobs can be performed as a worker on an offshore oil rig, many of which can cause severe injury or even death. For people with less experience, they can look at work as rude.

The Possible Dangers

Of course, offshore oil rig jobs present very different challenges. One of those challenges that some people may not consider is time. Highly combustible gases are used in daily operations, and although disasters are pretty rare when they do occur, they often kill large numbers of people. Injuries are also common to offshore oil rig workers, mainly due to the risk of workers falling and possible injuries from falling dangerous machines and tools. Timely condition monitoring services can minimise the potential danger mentioned.

Onshore oil platforms are similar to those used in offshore drilling projects, except they are used onshore.  According to the study Labour Statistics, working on an oil rig carries an above-average risk of non-fatal injuries.

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Fire

One of the most significant risks for workers employed on oil rigs is fire. Petroleum is highly flammable, as are many chemicals regularly used in drilling, including hydrogen sulphide. A well can also build up a lot of pressure, leading to an explosion if not corrected in time.

Falls and tool falls

Falls and associated accidents can be a concern in many workplaces, but they are top concerns on land-based oil rigs. Many reports indicate that seven percent of oil worker deaths were caused by falls from higher to lower levels, and even more dangerous is when workers drop tools that hit another worker, which caused 22 percent of total deaths.  Workers wear helmets to protect themselves from this type of fatality and to avoid such fatal activities.

Machinery

Oil rigs use various types of dangerous machines that can pose a danger to workers, monitored by the Condition Monitoring Services. This includes the drill, spinning wheels, and support units such as cranes and forklifts. Such devices are often very noisy, which can make it very difficult for site workers to communicate. Technomax strives to provide risk-free condition monitoring services.

Fatigue

Fatigue can be a severe problem for oil rig workers, as it slows reaction times and increases the likelihood of an accident. Fatigue can be related to the long hours worked by the oil rig staff. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, land-based platform workers typically work between 7 and 14 consecutive days, and each day involves between 8 and 12 hours of work.

Waterfalls

Falling is one of the most significant dangers for blacksmiths. Metallurgists often perform tasks several meters above the ground. The process of climbing heights and then performing the necessary functions at high levels poses serious risks. Since metalworkers tend to work year-round, surfaces can be slippery from rain or ice. One misstep, and a blacksmith can fall, causing severe injury or death. Seat belts are used to minimize the risk of falls.

Cuts

Daily contact with sharp metals poses the danger of cuts for metallurgists. Metal scissors are commonly used to cut iron, and mistakes can cause a blacksmith to cut a hand or limb. Locksmiths must always be careful and well-equipped when working with metals to avoid severe cuts that can cause infections, stitches, or permanent damage. Our condition monitoring services can prevent cuts

Muscle Fatigue

Railway workers are at high risk of muscle fatigue. Many construction sites require handling heavy steel parts to unload and stack parts of a steelmaker's functions. This lifting and bending can cause muscle strain and back pain. Even when using equipment such as a crane to lift large metals, farriers must guide the positioning, requiring stretching to cause muscle fatigue. Welding is also part of a blacksmith's job and is often performed in awkward positions, resulting in muscle pain.

Burns

Ironworkers regularly weld, which can cause burns. Welding equipment can not only burn hands and limbs, but sparks can fly into the eyes, causing severe damage. When welding, steelworkers should wear protective goggles, welding clothing, and gloves to prevent this type of injury. In addition, vapors and heat from welding activities, especially when working near combustible materials, can cause fires, resulting in severe injury or death. Following safety guidelines is a must for steelworkers when using welding equipment. Technomax has a proven track record of providing condition-monitoring services in the UAE.

Chemical Hazards

According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration, in some workplace areas, such as hospitals, employees address the potential for exposure to chemicals or drugs and exposure to residual anaesthetic gases. Employees use many chemicals to clean and disinfect equipment, and some can be very dangerous if inhaled inside.

The Risks of Repetition

Musculoskeletal injuries can occur when an employee is helping move a patient or equipment. Employees also spend most of the day on their feet. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention report that healthcare workers, such as employees, suffer some back injuries more often than workers in construction, mining, and manufacturing occupations. Repetitive motion injuries, however, result from making the same motion repeatedly. An employee who uses the same equipment daily may develop a repetitive motion injury to the hand used to manipulate the equipment.

The potential of violence

Violence in the workplace is a risk for all health professionals. Some people see the hospital as a source of drugs and may try to rob it. Patients with mental problems or under the influence of drugs or alcohol can become violent. In some cases, the threat may be a disgruntled worker or perpetrator of domestic violence.

Mechanical injuries

Bodywork professionals work with compressors, sprayers, winches, traction chains, and other types of equipment. Each piece of equipment contains mechanical components, such as gears or sprockets, which can cause serious injury. These injuries include cuts, severed fingers, crushed hands, and burns. Workers must wear personal protective equipment to protect themselves from this type of injury. Employees should also always follow the manufacturer's instructions to reduce the risk of accidents caused by inappropriate equipment. Technomax provides best-in-class condition Monitoring Services in Abu Dhabi, UAE.